The Monastic Diurnal is a liturgical book used primarily by Benedictine monks and oblates for praying the Divine Office, covering the daytime canonical hours from Matins to Compline. It provides a structured framework for daily prayer, maintaining a rhythm that connects the individual to centuries of monastic tradition. One of the most common questions among those new to this practice is: “How long does it take to pray the Monastic Diurnal?”
The answer depends on factors such as experience, familiarity with Latin (if using a traditional version), whether chanting or reciting, and the specific observance followed. This guide will break down the estimated prayer times, explain each hour’s length, and provide insights into making the practice more efficient and spiritually enriching.
Factors That Affect the Time Required to Pray the Monastic Diurnal
The duration of prayer depends on several factors, including:
1. Experience Level
- Beginners: May take longer while learning chants, psalm arrangements, and antiphons.
- Experienced practitioners: Move through the office more fluently.
2. Recitation vs. Chanting
- Reciting quietly: Takes significantly less time.
- Chanting fully (especially in Latin): Can double the time required.
3. Number of Psalms and Antiphons Used
- Some communities follow a longer psalter cycle than others.
- Shorter readings and psalms reduce the total prayer time.
4. Use of Latin vs. Vernacular Language
- Latin chanting takes longer due to careful pronunciation.
- Reading in English can be faster and more accessible.
5. Personal Pace and Prayer Style
- Those who meditate deeply on each verse will take longer.
- A more rhythmic, structured pace speeds up the Office.
General Timeline for Praying the Monastic Diurnal
| Canonical Hour | Estimated Time (Recited) | Estimated Time (Chanted) |
|---|---|---|
| Matins (Vigils) (Optional in some editions) | 30-60 min | 60-90 min |
| Lauds | 15-30 min | 30-45 min |
| Prime | 5-15 min | 15-25 min |
| Terce | 5-10 min | 10-15 min |
| Sext | 5-10 min | 10-15 min |
| None | 5-10 min | 10-15 min |
| Vespers | 15-30 min | 30-45 min |
| Compline | 10-20 min | 20-30 min |
| Total Daily Time | 80-180 min | 150-275 min |
Step-by-Step Breakdown of Each Hour in the Monastic Diurnal
Step 1: Matins (Optional) (30-90 Minutes)
- Traditionally prayed before dawn.
- Includes long psalms, multiple readings, and responsories.
- Often omitted by laypeople or replaced with spiritual reading.
⏳ Estimated time: 30-90 minutes.
Step 2: Lauds (15-45 Minutes)
- One of the major hours, prayed at sunrise.
- Includes Psalms 66, 50, and additional psalms.
- Concludes with the Benedictus (Canticle of Zechariah).
⏳ Estimated time: 15-45 minutes.
Step 3: Prime (5-25 Minutes)
- A morning hour that prepares for the day.
- Includes a short psalm cycle and a hymn.
- Suppressed in the Roman Breviary after Vatican II but retained in the Monastic Diurnal.
⏳ Estimated time: 5-25 minutes.
Step 4: Terce (5-15 Minutes)
- Mid-morning prayer (around 9 AM).
- Short psalms with a hymn and antiphon.
- Often used as preparation for Mass.
⏳ Estimated time: 5-15 minutes.
Step 5: Sext (5-15 Minutes)
- Midday prayer (around noon).
- Focuses on prayer for strength and endurance.
- Shorter than Lauds or Vespers.
⏳ Estimated time: 5-15 minutes.
Step 6: None (5-15 Minutes)
- Afternoon prayer (around 3 PM).
- Reflects on Christ’s Passion and perseverance in trials.
⏳ Estimated time: 5-15 minutes.
Step 7: Vespers (15-45 Minutes)
- Evening prayer, second most important hour after Lauds.
- Features the Magnificat (Canticle of Mary).
- Generally prayed around sunset.
⏳ Estimated time: 15-45 minutes.
Step 8: Compline (10-30 Minutes)
- Final prayer before sleep.
- Includes Psalm 4, 90, or 133, plus the Nunc Dimittis (Canticle of Simeon).
- Often recited from memory in traditional monasteries.
⏳ Estimated time: 10-30 minutes.
How to Speed Up the Prayer Process Without Losing Reverence
✔ Use Vernacular for Faster Recitation – Reading in English is quicker than Latin. ✔ Memorize Frequent Psalms & Canticles – Cuts down time spent looking up prayers. ✔ Set a Steady Rhythm – Avoid excessive pausing, but maintain prayerful reverence. ✔ Pray With a Group – Helps maintain focus and discipline. ✔ Use Chant Sparingly – Chant only on special occasions or feast days.
Common Questions About Praying the Monastic Diurnal
1. Can You Pray the Monastic Diurnal in Under an Hour?
Yes, if you recite only the major hours (Lauds, Vespers, and Compline) and skip minor hours, it can be completed in under an hour.
2. Do You Have to Pray Every Hour?
No, laypeople often pray only Lauds, Vespers, and Compline.
3. Is It Difficult to Learn?
It takes time, especially if chanting in Latin, but using a guidebook helps.
4. What’s the Best Way to Start?
- Begin with Lauds and Vespers.
- Add Compline once comfortable.
- Gradually integrate minor hours as time allows.
5. Do Monks Pray the Monastic Diurnal Every Day?
Yes, but they also pray Matins (often not included in lay versions).
How Long Does It Take to Pray the Monastic Diurnal?
The time required to pray the Monastic Diurnal varies based on pace, recitation vs. chanting, and experience. Most practitioners spend 80-180 minutes daily when reciting and 150-275 minutes when chanting. Beginners may take longer, but over time, the process becomes more natural.
To integrate it into your daily life:
- Start with major hours (Lauds, Vespers, Compline).
- Use vernacular recitation if pressed for time.
- Develop a steady rhythm to maintain reverence.
With dedication and practice, praying the Monastic Diurnal becomes a deeply enriching part of spiritual life, connecting you to the rich tradition of monastic prayer throughout history.
