Rosary rally at Notre Dame honors decades-long tradition

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Hundreds gathered in front of Bond Hall at the University of Notre Dame on Sunday for the annual Rosary Rally, a tradition that draws students, alumni, and local Catholics for communal prayer and devotion to the Virgin Mary.

The event, which differs from a traditional Mass, centers on the teachings and meditative practices associated with Mary, aiming to deepen participants’ connection to Jesus through reflection and prayer. Organizers say the rally is designed to foster unity and spiritual growth within the community.

This year’s rally marked the 76th anniversary of Notre Dame’s historic 1948 Rosary Rally, when Father Patrick Peyton led 35,000 faithful in prayer at the university’s football stadium. Participants on Sunday honored that legacy, underscoring the continued importance of Marian devotion at Notre Dame.