This book of monastic spirituality will benefit everyone seeking a more intimate daily communion with God. Beginning with an explanation of the development of the Christian prayer tradition, Father Pennington traces the roots of Christian prayer back to its origin in Judaism. Certain times were set aside each day for prayer -- these times were the third, sixth, and ninth hours of the day. In addition to hours prayers, Matins (watch prayers), Lauds (morning prayer), Vespers (evening prayer), and Compline (said before retiring) completed the hallowing of each day. Over time, responsibilities and duties hindered the recitation of these prayers by the entire community, but they were never abandoned. Communities of monastic Christians were born of the need to continue the sanctifying of the day with the official prayer of the Church.The Abbey Prayer Book brings you the rich spiritual tradition that has been kept alive in monastic communities. Complete with opening prayers, hymns, Psalms and Canticles, readings, and concluding prayers, this uplifting prayer book provides daily spiritual guidance to all Christians who desire to participate in the ancient prayer tradition of the Church. Selections proper to the day honor the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Apostles, Martyrs, and Saints. The second section of The Abbey Prayer Book offers prayers of praise, prayers to the Trinity, and prayers for special needs and concerns. Concluding with a discussion of the methods of prayer, this prayer companion also presents sections on scriptural prayer, the Stations of the Cross, the rosary, and centering prayer.A spiritual treasure, The Abbey Prayer Book presents the ancient prayer tradition of the Churchas ever new, ever needed, and as the source of a grace-filled life.