How to Use the Book of Daily Prayer

The Book of Daily Prayer helps people better understand the Bible.

Many Christian denominations use a Book of Daily Prayer. Most are based on the original Book of Common Prayer, created in the 1500s by the Church of England to help lay people in the daily practice of their faith. Using such a book can help the individual better understand the Bible and his religion. The book generally contains prayers for every day of the year, often for both morning and evening. Special holy days or feast days are also listed; these contain longer prayers and songs to celebrate the special occasion.

Instructions

1. Look for the correct day in the Book of Daily Prayer. There is a calendar located in the book that will help you determine where you are in the year.

2. Find a place where you can be still and quiet. Choose the same place and time each day to simplify the process and help you focus.

3. Locate the daily readings in the book. Read the morning reading and look at the lesson for the day. Read the daily Psalm.

4. Complete the lesson for the day. Think about the lessons that your church has been talking about for the week as well, and try to incorporate them into your learning for the day.

5. Read the evening prayer before going to bed for the night.

References

• Trinity Cathedral: Using the Book of Common Prayer for Daily Devotions; The Rev. Grant S. Carey
• Franciscans of Divine Providence: Prayer