Divine Office facts for kids

The Divine Office (also called Officium Divinum in Latin) is the official daily prayer of the Catholic Church. It's a special way for people to pray together, following a set schedule throughout the day. Think of it as the Church's public conversation with God.

Another common name for this prayer is the Liturgy of the Hours. It's a very old tradition that helps Christians connect with God at different times, from morning until night. The Church decides what prayers are included in the Divine Office.

What is the Liturgy of the Hours?

The Liturgy of the Hours is a collection of prayers, psalms (songs from the Bible), hymns, and readings. These prayers are said at specific times during the day. It's a way for the whole Church to pray constantly, just like the Bible encourages.

Why is it important for Catholics?

This prayer is important because it unites Catholics around the world. When priests, religious sisters, and many lay people pray the Liturgy of the Hours, they are all praying the same words. This creates a strong spiritual connection. It helps them to remember God throughout their busy days.

Who prays the Divine Office?

Many different people pray the Divine Office. Priests and deacons are required to pray it every day. Monks and nuns in monasteries also pray it as a central part of their daily life. Many other Catholics, including families and individuals, choose to pray parts of it too.

How is the Divine Office structured?

The Divine Office is divided into several "hours" or prayer times. Each hour has a specific purpose and includes different prayers. These hours are spread throughout the day and night.

What are the main "hours" of prayer?

There are several main parts, or "hours," in the Liturgy of the Hours:

• Invitatory (or Invitatorium): This is the opening prayer, often said before the first main hour. It invites everyone to praise God.
• Office of Readings (or Officium Lectionis): This hour can be prayed at any time of day. It includes longer readings from the Bible and writings from important Christian thinkers.
• Morning Prayer (or Lauds): This hour is prayed at dawn. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and the start of a new day.
• Daytime Prayer (or Hora Media): This includes three shorter hours: Terce (mid-morning), Sext (midday), and None (mid-afternoon). People usually choose one of these to pray.
• Evening Prayer (or Vespers): This hour is prayed as the day ends. It gives thanks for the day and remembers Jesus' sacrifice.
• Night Prayer (or Compline): This is the final prayer of the day, said before going to sleep. It asks for God's protection during the night.

What kind of prayers are in each hour?

Each hour typically includes:

• A hymn (a song of praise).
• Several psalms (prayers from the Old Testament).
• A short Bible reading.
• A responsory (a short verse that is repeated).
• Intercessions (prayers for the needs of the Church and the world).
• The Lord's Prayer (Our Father).
• A concluding prayer.

History of the Liturgy of the Hours

The practice of praying at specific times of the day has very old roots. It comes from both Jewish traditions and early Christian communities.

How did it develop over time?

Early Christians would gather to pray at certain times, following the example of Jesus and his apostles. Over centuries, these practices developed into the structured Divine Office we know today. Monasteries played a big role in shaping and preserving these daily prayers.

When was it officially organized?

The structure of the Divine Office has been refined many times throughout history. After the Second Vatican Council (a major meeting of Catholic leaders) in the 1960s, the Liturgy of the Hours was updated. This made it easier for more people to participate and understand the prayers.

How can you participate?

While priests and religious orders have a special duty to pray the Divine Office, anyone can join in. Many prayer books and apps are available that contain the full text of the Liturgy of the Hours.

Where can you find the prayers?

You can find the prayers in special books called "breviaries" or "divine office books." There are also many websites and smartphone apps that provide the daily prayers for free. This makes it easy for anyone to follow along.

Why is daily prayer important for young people?

Learning about and even trying to pray parts of the Divine Office can be a great way to grow in your faith. It helps you to:

• Remember God throughout your day.
• Feel connected to the wider Catholic Church.
• Learn more about the Bible and Christian tradition.
• Develop a habit of regular prayer.