The School of Prayer: An Introduction to the Divine Office for All Christians [Paperback]

John Brook (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 2, 1991

Anyone seeking a more complete prayer life eventually comes up against the Divine Office, a formidable obstacle for the uninitiated. Here is a clear, simple, and complete introduction that will guide anyone wishing to take up morning, evening, and night prayer from the Divine Office.

The basic principle of the Office is explained, and the method of putting the principle into practice is detailed. With the Office providing both the words and the discipline, a consistent prayer life based on the Divine Office can be built. Pocket-sized, with ribbon marker.

Product Details

• Paperback: 480 pages
• Publisher: Liturgical Press (July 2, 1991)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0814620280
• ISBN-13: 978-0814620281
• Product Dimensions: 6 x 4 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #150,604 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

82 of 82 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent companion to the breviary, November 13, 2001

By A Customer

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This review is from: The School of Prayer: An Introduction to the Divine Office for All Christians (Paperback)

This small volume is a superb book, and I have given several copies to family members and fellow parishioners. The introductory chapters give a thorough explanation of the purpose and meaning of the Liturgy of the Hours, stressing that the Divine Office is intended for ALL Christians, not just the clergy, and not just Catholics. If only more Christians were aware of what a treasure we have in the Liturgy of the Hours!

To those not familiar with the Psalms, the introductory chapters give an excellent summary of this ancient and enduring form of prayer. Coming to the Divine Office as a lay person, I found Part 1 of this book provided an excellent foundation on which to build. At the end of Part 1, there is a helpful glossary and suggestions for further reading. Part 2 is a commentary, based on the structure of the complete Liturgy of the Hours found in the four volume set (Catholic Book Publishing Co. in the U.S.). I find the commentary is very sound and insightful, and helps deepen my appreciation for the Liturgy of the Hours.

Although this book is designed to accompany the full four volume set of the Liturgy of the Hours, it can easily be used by those using shorter breviaries, such as "Christian Prayer" or those who use the periodical "Magnificat". As the author says,"This book is written for all who are learning to pray". In this time of trial for our nation and the world, I believe the Liturgy of the Hours to be an indispensable help; this book serves as an excellent introduction.

32 of 32 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Understanding what you are praying in the Divine Office, February 24, 2006

By 

Gordon W. Sibley "Gordon" (Alabama) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

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This review is from: The School of Prayer: An Introduction to the Divine Office for All Christians (Paperback)

I cannot recommend this book too strongly! It is more about formation in prayer than it is information about praying. It has helped me to gain a deeper appreciation for the Liturgy of the Hours, the Divine Office, Morning and Evening Prayer - whatever title you are accustomed to use for this ancient prayer of the Church. The author gives the theme for each of the psalms and canticles that will be prayed. This helps to refresh your memory so reading through the entire commentary each time is not necessary. Then follows a good orthodox commentary on each Psalm and canticle with a brief explanation of the seasonal antiphons that focus the prayer. There is a brief but good history about how the Divine Office developed in the Church going back to Jesus and the Apostles prayer together. There are commentaries on the Invitatory Psalms, the Magnificat, the Benedictus, and the Canticle of Simeon. There are excellent articles that thrill one's soul such "Christ in the Psalms", "Christ in the Divine Office" and several others. You will not regret buying this inspirational book. It makes an excellent gift for newly ordained priests, deacons, and for those coming into third orders that make praying the Divine Office part of their daily prayer.

22 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great book for understanding the Psalms in the LOH, September 3, 2005

By 

Theophilus "beihner" (Minnesota United States) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: The School of Prayer: An Introduction to the Divine Office for All Christians (Paperback)

I borrowed this book from a friend whom I pray the Liturgy of the Hours with - I purchased the book right away as it helps one to understand the meanings of the Psalms used in the Psalter. This books helps to make praying the Hours much richer. I greatly recommend it if you pray the LOH and find yourself saying "now what does THAT mean??"