Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C. (January 9, 1909 – June 3, 1992), was an Irish-born Catholic priest renowned for his dedication to promoting family prayer, particularly through the Rosary. Born in Attymass, County Mayo, Ireland, he was the sixth of nine children in a devout Catholic family that prayed the Rosary together nightly. In 1928, seeking better opportunities, Patrick and his brother Thomas emigrated to the United States, joining their sisters in Scranton, Pennsylvania. While working as a sexton at St. Peter's Cathedral, Patrick felt a renewed calling to the priesthood. He and his brother entered the Congregation of Holy Cross and pursued their vocations at the University of Notre Dame, where they prepared for priestly ministry.

During his seminary years, Patrick faced a life-threatening battle with tuberculosis. Turning to the Rosary, he prayed fervently for Mary’s intercession and experienced a remarkable recovery, which he attributed to her aid. This deepened his devotion to Marian prayer and shaped his future mission. Ordained in 1941, Father Peyton launched the Family Rosary Crusade in 1942, encouraging families worldwide to pray together daily. Using mass media—including radio, film, and television—he collaborated with Hollywood stars like Bing Crosby and Gregory Peck to popularize his message. His slogan, "The family that prays together stays together," became widely known, emphasizing the Rosary’s role in fostering unity and faith within families.

Father Peyton’s efforts led to massive Rosary rallies worldwide, drawing millions in cities like Manila, New York, and São Paulo. His unwavering commitment to Marian devotion earned him the title "The Rosary Priest." Father Peyton’s legacy continues through organizations such as Family Theater Productions and Family Rosary International, which carry on his mission of promoting prayer and devotion to Mary.