Office basics

I       Office Basics

Before you actually try to start saying the Benedictine Office, there are some things you need to know about it.  So read these posts to get the essentials before you start.

1.  Seven things you should know about the Benedictine Office

If you are thinking about saying the Benedictine Office, it is worth knowing a little it about it. 

2.  Books for the Benedictine Office

The notes in this series are primarily based around the Monastic Diurnal and Antiphonale Monasticum, but this post takes you though the options.

3. Finding you way around the Monastic Diurnal

So your new Monastic Diurnal has just arrived.  Here's how to navigate it...

4. Singing the Office - and finding you way around the Antiphonale Monasticum

The Divine Office - and especially the Benedictine Office - is meant to be sung.  This post gives some suggestions on how to get started, and introduces the key book of chants for the day hours, the Antiphonale Monasticum.

5.  What changes and what doesn't in the Office

What prayers you say in the Office depend on several different cycles that impact on it - the particular hour of the day or night being said; the day of the week; the liturgical season and week; and feasts attached to fixed dates.  This post provides an overview.

6. Preparatory Prayers

Before you actually say the hours, you need to prepare yourself mentally, and aks for God's help to pray well.