The Liturgy of the Hours

What is it and How to Pray with the Church

The Liturgy of the Hours: What is it and How to Pray with the Church

What Is the Liturgy of the Hours?

The Liturgy of the Hours, also known as the Divine Office or Breviary, is the daily prayer of the Church, marking the hours of each day and sanctifying time with prayer. It consists of psalms, scripture readings, hymns, and intercessions, prayed at specific times throughout the day. Its purpose is to unite the Church in continuous praise and intercession, joining our voices with those of Christ, the saints, and the whole Church.

Rooted in Jewish prayer traditions and formalized by the early Church, the Liturgy of the Hours is prayed by clergy, religious, and laity around the world. While priests and religious vow to pray it daily, the Church encourages all the faithful to take part as they are able.