Liturgy of the Hours

— Midweek Meditations:
thoughts, inspiration and encouragement
from ACF community members —

A few weeks ago, the chaplaincy took part for the first time in the prayer initiative of “Thy Kingdom come”. This took place between Pentecost and Ascension Day. We, and many other churches, held a nightly prayer meeting. Ours taking place on Zoom. Each night was led by a different chaplaincy member, either following a liturgy or their own reflections. This was well received, and this Wednesday evening we will continue with a weekly short prayer meeting (at 9pm for 20-30 minutes).

In the church of England, it is common for the minister to hold morning and evening prayer each day in their church. When we visit London, we enjoy going to the midday communion or evening prayer in one of the cathedrals. It is a good way to take time out of a busy sightseeing day.

As you might not be near somewhere that holds a daily C of E service it is also possible to find them online. The church of England website has a recording and the liturgy to follow. You could also follow a church or cathedral YouTube channel that posts their morning or evening prayer, such as Canterbury Cathedral. Some churches even broadcast their ordinary daily office live on facebook or other places. The liturgy could also be read through as part of your quite time.

I do encourage you to give this practice a go – either in you personal prayer life or together with others.

In peace we will lie down and sleep;
for you alone, Lord, make us dwell in safety.

Abide with us, Lord Jesus,
for the night is at hand and the day is now past.

As the night watch looks for the morning,
so do we look for you, O Christ.

The Lord bless us and watch over us;
the Lord make his face shine upon us and be gracious to us;
the Lord look kindly on us and give us peace.
Amen.

From the Church of England’s Compline (Night Prayer)