I have a rosary that belonged to my grandma but....?

Question

she was not Catholic. I'm not Catholic either but I am a Christian. I don't know where my grandma ever got it and she died in 1984. What should I do with it? Should I keep it or give it to someone who is Catholic?? Wouldn't it be inproper for me to display it anywhere in my house since I'm not Catholic? Should I donate it to a church? These may sound like dumb questions but I've been wondering about this for years now. Thanks.

Answer 1

First of all, If you are a Christian there is nothing wrong with having a Rosary around even if your not Catholic. However, it is important to understand its meaning, and in the mean time enjoy its BEAUTY and Significance.

The Merriam Webster dictionary defines the Rosary as follows: A String of Beads used to keep count in saying prayers. Also there is more meaning to the word Rosary from other sources and some are interesting.

For what it is worth before I started my walk in the Christain faith my mother had a Rosary that I handled and admired. We are now all Protestant, but that Rosary today is a very powerful image that I can still recall in my mind, its beauty and symbol.

No, don't get rid of it, let it have a place of honor in your Jewry box.

RD

Answer 2

Someone who was a Catholic probably gave it to her. You could hang on to it just because it belonged to your grandma. She obviously kept it for a reason, too bad you don't know what that reason is. I don't see why you would need to display it, you could just keep in an old jewelery box. That's what my family members do with old rosaries (but my family is/was Catholic). Donating it is always an option if you don't feel there is any sentimental value to it.

I've got a bust of Jesus because it belonged to my great-grandmother. It means something to me because it's been in the family for about 100 years. I'm not even a Christian but I would never get rid of it.

Answer 3

If I were you I'd keep it, because it reminds you of your grandma and that sounds as if she's very important to you. The rosary itself can't be 'defaced' or damaged in any way simply by being owned by a non-Catholic or non-Christian, if that was what was worrying you; whether you display it is entirely up to you. Some people have a little corner where they display family mementos - photographs, ornaments, special pieces of jewellery, etc., - and you might think about putting it there if you have one. I don't think that any Catholic would be at all offended.

Answer 4

do you think the rosary is just for catholics? Do you think using Christ's mother as an intercessor is not for Christians or a christian thing to do? One of the most christian things you can do is to say the rosary. There is a plan for Mary to save millions by her intercession. and by destroying vice thereby bringing people closer to Christ. No you save that rosary and use it and proudly display it. You are a lucky lucky person. God bless.

Answer 5

I would keep it because it was probably very important to your Grandma. I am not Catholic but have a rosary a lady gave me. I keep it in my jewelry box and it reminds me of her every time I see it. I don't see anything wrong with displaying it either. In memory of grandma.

Answer 6

I have a rosary
I also have Muslim prayer beads
and I am neither Catholic nor Muslim
I think they are quite lovely
and since it belonged to gran , does it matter whether you are Catholic or not ?
keep it if you wish
if you dont then yes im sure the church would appreciate it

Answer 7

I have my Grandmothers bible she was given for something she did as a member of the church of England. I know she got it when she was young. And, even though I am an atheist, I keep it, as she always had it with her and she left to me in hopes that I "might come around". I have it displayed in my house along with my Grandfather's Flag when he was buried.

Answer 8

Whether or not you are Catholic shouldn't be an issue. Anything of your deceased Grandmother should be cherished. Wear it around your neck along with a gold Cross and be proud!

Answer 9

Keep it or pass it on to your local Catholic Parish as you wish. The only absolute is that whatever you do with it, it must be treated with respect and not as a piece of jewelry.

Personally, I'd keep it.

Answer 10

If your grandmother was dear to you, then hang onto it for sentimental value. There is nothing wrong with displaying something of sentimental value that represents a different faith than your own.
Perhaps your grandmother had it for sentimental reasons herself.