Today, we’re diving into a topic that holds profound significance for our spiritual lives – the Liturgy of the Hours.
The Liturgy of the Hours
The Liturgy of the Hours, also known as the Divine Office or Breviary, is a structured way of praying throughout the day. It’s a powerful connection to God that helps us sanctify time and infuse our daily lives with prayer. But why is it so important?
First, let’s turn to the Bible. In the book of Psalms, we find these words in Psalm 119:164,
“Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous laws.”
This verse illustrates the ancient Jewish practice of praying at different times throughout the day. Early Christians adopted this tradition, and it evolved into the Liturgy of the Hours. Saint Augustine once said, “You aspire to great things? Begin with little ones.” The Liturgy of the Hours helps us do just that. By setting aside moments for prayer throughout the day, we integrate our faith into our daily routines.
Saint John Paul II said the following, “The Divine Office ‘is truly the voice of the Church,’ the ‘public prayer of the Church,’ ‘a necessary and excellent part of the Church’s life.'”
These prayers, aligned with the Church’s calendar, help us join in the universal prayer of the Church, strengthening our sense of community with fellow Catholics worldwide.
There will always be catholics worldwide praying the liturgy of the hours, always. When I was in the seminary, this caught me by surprise, I never knew there was a prayer that all religious men and women pray, including the pope.
Another reason why the Liturgy of the Hours is so vital is its ability to sanctify our daily lives. Through the Psalms, hymns, and readings, we connect with the Word of God in the midst of our busy schedules. Within the Liturgy of the Hours, we encounter the richness of sacred scripture. The Psalms, Old and New Testament readings, and Gospel passages bring us closer to God’s Word and provide a profound source of spiritual nourishment. By praying the Liturgy of the Hours, we immerse ourselves in the Bible, fostering a deeper understanding of our faith.
One thing to watch out for is praying them but only to check a box in your “to do list”. No, try your hardest to reflect and meditate on what you are reading. Sure, there is times that you will not be 100% concentrated, but still do them even if you don’t feel like it, because that in itself is a sacrifice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Liturgy of the Hours is not just a tradition; it’s a spiritual treasure that enriches our lives as Catholics. It brings us into communion with saints like Augustine, John Paul II, Teresa of Ávila, and Jerome, who have all recognized its significance.
Let’s aim to make the Liturgy of the Hours an integral part of our daily lives. Let it be our guide, our refuge, and our source of spiritual growth. As we journey together in faith, remember that in the Liturgy of the Hours, we find God’s timeless embrace, a love that transcends all understanding.
Where can I pray them?
I personally used the “Laudate app”. It’s updated daily and it also has plenty of other prayers.
