Helen Howell, an avid piano player,
performed at an anniversary party for Father Frederick Schell.
At the time of this recording, she was likely 84 years old. (1987)
The Story Behind "The Secret of the Rosary"
"The Secret of the Rosary": From 18th Century France to Modern Spiritual Classic
St. Louis de Montfort's masterwork "The Secret of the Rosary," written in early 18th century France, stands as one of Catholicism's most influential spiritual guides. This treasured manual, which explains the profound theology and practice of the Rosary devotion, has transformed countless lives through its journey from handwritten manuscript to global spiritual phenomenon. Its modern resurgence, sparked by one American family's dedication, reveals how divine providence can work through ordinary people to spread extraordinary grace.
Origins and Early History
In 1716, just months before his death, St. Louis de Montfort completed his manuscript explaining the history, prayers, and mystical meanings of the Rosary. The saint, known for his profound Marian devotion, wrote the text to help both beginners and advanced souls deepen their relationship with Jesus through Mary. The work circulated initially in French Catholic communities before being translated into other languages, though its reach remained limited for over two centuries.
A Family's Divine Inspiration
In the mid-1960s, the book's destiny shifted through an unexpected channel. Helen Howell, a convert to Catholicism, and her son J. Bruce "Bud" Howell discovered the 1954 hardcover edition published by the Montfort Fathers. The timing proved providential – the Second Vatican Council had recently concluded, and many Catholics sought to deepen their traditional devotions. The Howells recognized that making this spiritual treasure more accessible could help answer Our Lady of Fatima's call for increased prayer and devotion to the Rosary.
From Basement to Breakthrough
As owner of Christ and Country Books in Rockford, Illinois, Bud Howell took the bold step of publishing an affordable paperback edition. The project truly became a family ministry when Helen offered her basement as a storage facility for the thousands of printed copies. The editions gained their now-famous cover image when Bud discovered a striking portrayal of Our Lady of the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary at a St. Thomas School rummage sale – a seemingly chance find that would become iconic.
A Legacy Continues
Between 1965 and 1969, the Howells produced five editions of their paperback version. Helen's friendship with Thomas A. Nelson, founder of TAN Publishers, proved crucial for the book's future. Recognizing TAN's growing reach in Catholic publishing and shared commitment to traditional spirituality, Helen arranged for them to take over publication in October 1970. This transition ensured the work would reach an even wider audience while maintaining its spiritual integrity.
Under TAN's stewardship, "The Secret of the Rosary" has flourished, with over 30 printings reaching more than 5.3 million readers worldwide. The book continues to fulfill its original purpose, teaching new generations the profound spiritual wisdom of Marian devotion through the Rosary.
Impact and Spiritual Legacy
The enduring influence of "The Secret of the Rosary" extends far beyond sales figures. It has helped revive Rosary devotion in countless parishes, inspired numerous Rosary prayer groups, and provided spiritual guidance to readers seeking deeper connection with their faith. The Howells' vision of making this spiritual classic more accessible has borne fruit far beyond their initial hopes, contributing to a renewal of Marian devotion in modern times.
Helen and Bud Howell's labor of love continues to touch lives today, a testament to how divine providence can work through faithful individuals to spread spiritual treasures to new generations. May their souls, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Helen & J. Bruce Howell, Mother & Son
SHOP NOW
BLACK ADVENT - 1964 by H. Howell
Dear Family,
I have never spent such a black Advent before; felt as though I died that First Sunday of Advent when officially the Mass was changed. We’re past the point of no return and I tremble for the future chaos that could happen to our Holy Faith. Never thought it would go this far. The attached copies of letters were sent to several priests with a copy to our Pope with Christmas cards.
The Wanderer has mentioned our Holy Father (Pope Paul VI) was seen weeping at the dissension in the Church and the verbal attacks made against him by the liberal element. My Advent has been spent doing all I can to win souls for Christ by prayer, sacrifice and daily Masses, the best Christmas we can give Him; I’m so aware to that our Mass could become obscured altogether and I want to take advantage of the privilege as long as possible.
We must do more and inspire others too; the situation is serious but God can do nothing for us until we heed His Mothers wishes. Never before has it become so important to root yourself deeply in the Faith, a building of a Kingdom of God within. . Pray, pray much, especially the family Rosary for world peace.
Love,
I have never spent such a black Advent before; felt as though I died that First Sunday of Advent when officially the Mass was changed. We’re past the point of no return and I tremble for the future chaos that could happen to our Holy Faith. Never thought it would go this far. The attached copies of letters were sent to several priests with a copy to our Pope with Christmas cards.
The Wanderer has mentioned our Holy Father (Pope Paul VI) was seen weeping at the dissension in the Church and the verbal attacks made against him by the liberal element. My Advent has been spent doing all I can to win souls for Christ by prayer, sacrifice and daily Masses, the best Christmas we can give Him; I’m so aware to that our Mass could become obscured altogether and I want to take advantage of the privilege as long as possible.
We must do more and inspire others too; the situation is serious but God can do nothing for us until we heed His Mothers wishes. Never before has it become so important to root yourself deeply in the Faith, a building of a Kingdom of God within. . Pray, pray much, especially the family Rosary for world peace.
Love,
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)