As far as the Daily Office is concerned, the current edition of the American Book of Common Prayer is underemployed. Most faithful church people seem to know and use only certain limited portions of it or assume it is the special domain of clergy and monastics. This is not the original intent of the Office. Using it in this way is like using a new automobile exclusively as a water heater. It can be used this way, but it would be a bizarre restriction. Very few Christians seem to think of the Daily Office as something intended for all baptized persons, but this is actually its nature and purpose. - from the Introduction
The discipline of praying the Daily Office has fallen out of practice in recent years, even while many Americans seek to deepen their spiritual lives. The Discipline of the Daily Office is for all Christians, Episcopalian or otherwise, who seek a deeper relationship with God and scripture through a regular daily practice. In accessible language, C.W. McPherson explores the history, theology, and spirituality inherent in Morning and Evening Prayer, as well as the Minor Offices. He also provides practical instructions about the Office to help those who wish to use these prayers thoughtfully. This book is an excellent resource for anyone who wishes to understand this ancient tradition more completely.
The Rev. C.W. McPherson has spent twenty years in parish ministry and is also a spiritual director, retreat leader, and a mentor for deacons and priests in formation. He teaches theology and church history. He is a published poet and the author of Understanding Faith: An Exploration of Christian Theology. He lives in New Rochelle, New York.
