The Contemplative Rosary takes St. John Paul II and St. Teresa of Avila as guides and explores the difference between contemplation and meditation; how to approach sacred writings not exclusively as an intellectual exercise, but also as prayers; the importance and meaning of vocal prayer, as well as how vocal prayer can be united to mental pray in the Rosary.

In addition to the many insights Burke and Rossini offer for understanding and enriching prayer, The Contemplative Rosary includes a Scripture meditation, reflections, and a closing prayer for each decade of the Joyful, Luminous, Sorrowful, and Glorious mysteries. These prayer aids are further enhanced by a collection of carefully chosen sacred art — one work to begin each decade and draw the reader more deeply into prayer.