The Liturgy of the Hours

The daily prayer of the universal Church

“Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing.
In all circumstances give thanks,
for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus”
(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

For Discalced Carmelites, the Liturgy of the Hours is an essential daily practice that structures and sanctifies their time, rooting them in the official prayer of the Church. While renowned for their commitment to silent, mental prayer as an intimate friendship with God, Carmelites embrace the Liturgy of the Hours with great devotion. It is seen not merely as an obligation but as a vital way to unite with Christ’s own prayer, to intercede for the world, and to nourish their contemplative life with the psalms and scriptures. The Divine Office, celebrated in common by friars and nuns and faithfully prayed by Secular Carmelites (Morning, Evening, and Night Prayer), forms a spiritual framework that supports their vocation to live in allegiance to Jesus Christ and in service to the Church through a life dedicated to prayer and seeking union with God.

‘The hymns and litanies of the Liturgy of the Hours integrate the prayer of the psalms into the age of the Church, expressing the symbolism of the time of day, the liturgical season, or the feast being celebrated. Moreover, the reading from the Word of God at each Hour (with the subsequent responses or troparia) and readings from the Fathers and spiritual masters at certain Hours, reveal more deeply the meaning of the mystery being celebrated, assist in understanding the psalms, and prepare for silent prayer.’ (CCC 1177)”