The Divine Office for Lay Catholics: How to Pray the Liturgy of the Hours

The Liturgy of the Hours—also known as the Divine Office—is not just for priests and religious. Lay Catholics are increasingly discovering this ancient prayer of the Church, which sanctifies the entire day through psalms, readings, and intercession.

What Is the Divine Office?

The Divine Office is the Church's official daily prayer, composed primarily of psalms, Scripture readings, hymns, and intercessions. St. Athanasius called it "the sacrament of time," as it consecrates each part of the day to God. The Second Vatican Council described it as "the very prayer which Christ Himself, together with His body, addresses to the Father."

While clergy and religious are obligated to pray the full Office, lay Catholics are warmly encouraged to participate in this prayer. It connects the faithful to the universal prayer of the Church being offered continuously around the world.

The Seven Hours of Prayer

The full Liturgy of the Hours consists of seven "hours" spread throughout the day:

Morning Prayer (Lauds)

Traditionally prayed at sunrise, Morning Prayer consecrates the day to God. It includes a hymn, two psalms, an Old Testament canticle, a short reading, and intercessions. Many laity pray this to begin their workday with God.

Midday Prayer (Sext)

A brief prayer at noon, sanctifying the middle of the day. It consists of a hymn, three short psalms, a reading, and a concluding prayer. Many pray this during their lunch break.

Afternoon Prayer (None)

Prayed around 3 PM, traditionally associated with the hour of Christ's death. This brief office helps transition from work to evening.

Evening Prayer (Vespers)

The "evening sacrifice of praise," prayed at sunset. It includes a hymn, two psalms, a New Testament canticle (often the Magnificat), a reading, and intercessions. Many families make this their main evening prayer.

Night Prayer (Compline)

The final prayer before sleep, entrusting oneself to God's protection. It includes a brief examination of conscience, psalms, the Nunc Dimittis (Canticle of Simeon), and a Marian antiphon.

Simplified Options for Busy Laity

Praying all seven hours may be impractical for most laypeople. The Church recommends simplified forms:

• Morning and Evening Prayer: The two "hinges" of the day, most essential for laity
• Night Prayer: Brief and perfect for bedtime
• Shorter Christian Prayer: A simplified one-volume version published specifically for laity
• Digital Apps: iBreviary, Universalis, and others make the Office accessible anywhere

The Psalms: Heart of the Office

The Divine Office prays the entire Book of Psalms over a four-week cycle. These ancient prayers of Israel become the prayer of Christ and His Church. Through the psalms, we express every human emotion before God—praise, lament, thanksgiving, petition, and trust.

Practical Tips for Beginners

If you're new to the Divine Office, start small:

• Begin with just Night Prayer—it's brief and beautiful
• Add Morning Prayer once you're comfortable
• Consider Evening Prayer with your family
• Use a single-volume Christian Prayer breviary to avoid complexity
• Try an app if books feel intimidating