A message from the Rector
In every confirmation class, I teach about the formation of our Book of Common Prayer. Before the Reformation, the prayers of the church were conducted every three hours and always in Latin. Who had the time and ability to participate in these prayers, then? Only monks and priests.
As Episcopalians, we are benefactors of the English Reformation in particular. With the advent of the printing press, little books of prayers in English began popping all over the country. It was the belief of our forebears that prayer was for all, and that our very common lives could be transfigured daily into the life of Christ.
They also agreed that our prayers would be said four times daily: morning, noon, evening, and before bed. The four services in our BCP are called Morning Prayer, Noonday Prayer, Evening Prayer, and Compline. You'll find them right at the front of the BCP. If you say them daily, you'll have read most of the Bible in two years along with developing a rich prayer life.
One app that has become a boon to me, particularly as I travel or find myself in a spot for prayers when I don't have a BCP or Bible on hand, is the Daily Office app. I have it bookmarked on my phone's home screen. Throughout the course of the day, it updates to the service of prayer appropriate to the hour and includes the scripture readings so you're not juggling two books.
I commend it to you as you prepare for this holy season of Lent. Morning Prayer is my favorite; it's also the longest and takes about 15 minutes. The rest can take as few as 5. Practicing one of these might be a good place to start if you're just beginning to consider a discipline of prayer in your life.
See you today at noon and/or 7:00 p.m. for Ash Wednesday services.
faithfully,
Amber
| 
