One of the most frequently asked questions about the Confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary is whether it is the same thing as the Rosary Altar Society. The answer to this question, in principle, is yes.
The Confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary is known by this name throughout the world. In the United States, however, local chapters of the Confraternity were often established in parishes under the name “Rosary Altar Society,” or “Rosary & Altar Society,” or some other, similar name. Although the names varied, these parish Rosary societies were almost always chartered formally by the Confraternity. In the United States, these parish Rosary societies were sometimes limited to women, but internationally the Confraternity itself has always been open to both men and women, having been founded by the Dominican Friars.
Parish Rosary societies that have lost touch with the Rosary Confraternity may reestablish contact (and, if necessary, receive a new charter) by using the form available here. Various materials and items for parish Rosary societies can also be obtained through our gift shop.