Book Review: The Power of the Rosary

Maria V. Gallagher discovers how to face spiritual challenges with grace through the new book, The Power of the Rosary.

The Power of the Rosary

By Gabriel Castillo

Published by Sophia Institute Press

It has been credited with a multitude of miracles, from saving individuals from genocide in Rwanda to bringing about incredible healings of mind, body, and soul. The Most Holy Rosary is a true gift to the Church, bestowed by the Blessed Mother to aid us in our spiritual journeys. 

Sometimes, however, we may find it challenging to meditate on the Mysteries. That is why Gabriel Castillo’s new book, The Power of the Rosary (Sophia Institute Press), is so vitally important. Castillo has created a helpful resource which can aid us in becoming more adept at praying this most critical devotion. 

Castillo’s book offers great breadth and insight. He covers the origins of the Rosary, the science of the Rosary, mental prayer and the Mysteries, spiritual warfare, the benefits and promises of the Rosary, and Rosary success stories. This work is theologically rich, yet is written in a down-to-earth, easy-to-follow format. It is the type of book you can read while nursing your baby or waiting to pick up your children or grandchildren at school. 

Mastering Mental Prayer 

Castillo offers words of encouragement to readers who are wondering if they will ever be able to master mental prayer. As he writes: 

If you persevere in prayer, Our Lady will intercede and obtain for you all the light you need. Have confidence that she can plunge a soul into divine consolation whenever she sees fit. This regular habit of mental prayer that you will develop by the frequent praying of the Rosary will open every door in the spiritual life. Even if you find it difficult at first, persevere, because you will get better with every Rosary. (86)

Benefits of Praying the Rosary 

Castillo also outlines five major benefits of the Rosary. These include:  

1. Mary will be our constant companion, and we will have peace in our souls. 
2. We will experience an enhancement in the gifts of the Holy Spirit.  
3. Our faith in and love of the Eucharist will increase. 
4. We can save souls by praying the Rosary. 
5. Praying the Rosary helps us to reach the heights of holiness. (p. 138ff)

What wonderful treasures are hidden within the gem of the Rosary! It is so comforting to me to think of Mary serving as my constant companion, especially during trying times. Moreover, I long to see an increase in the gifts of the Holy Spirit in my life. I want to see my love of the Eucharist increase exponentially, and it is empowering to think that I might be saving souls by praying the Rosary. It also seems like a dream come true to reach the heights of holiness through the prayerful recitation of this beloved devotion. 

The Need for The Power of the Rosary 

With the abundance of resources available on the Rosary, you might be wondering if there is a need for a book like this. I would say a resounding “Yes!” Castillo has crafted this book with phrasing that is both eloquent and elegant and it is a true pleasure to read. And I would argue that we all have more to learn about the Blessed Mother and the special prayer she gave us. Just when we think we know all there is to know about the Rosary, chances are we will be surprised by a new finding. The wealth of benefits from the Rosary is truly inexhaustible.  

Whether you pray the Rosary every day or have never picked up the habit, chances are you will have much to enjoy by delving into The Power of the Rosary, a true gift for our troubled times.      

Ask for The Power of the Rosary at your local Catholic bookseller, or order online from Amazon.com or the publisher, Sophia Institute Press.

Is this a book you'd like to read? Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2025 Maria V. Gallagher
Images: Canva