Libreria Editrice Vaticana: Liturgy of the Hours Is No Longer Available in Latin
The Liturgy of the Hours, also known as the Divine Office, has long been a cornerstone of Catholic prayer life, structured around a rhythm of prayers, psalms, hymns, and canticles recited at specific times of the day. This sacred practice, celebrated in various languages throughout the centuries, including the revered Latin, has roots in the ancient Church. However, upon my recent inquiry, the Libreria Editrice Vaticana, the publishing house of the Vatican, has informed me that the volumes of Latin edition of the Liturgy of the Hours, once a cherished part of our tradition, are no longer available.
I believe this will raise questions among those, including myself, who value the use of Latin in the liturgy, which has long held a special place as the official language of the Church. So, what has prompted this decision? And what does it mean for the faithful who prefer to pray in Latin?
The Role of Latin in the Catholic Church
Latin holds a unique position in the Catholic Church. It has been the official language of the Roman Rite for centuries, a symbol of the universality and unity of the Church across time and space. Although the Second Vatican Council permitted the use of vernacular languages in the liturgy, Latin remains the official language of the Church. It is often used for official documents, papal pronouncements, and liturgical texts. It bridges the global Church and ensures continuity with the ancient Church.
For many Catholics, the use of Latin in the Liturgy of the Hours is more than just tradition—it is a means of participating in the prayer of the Church in its most universal and unbroken form. The rhythmic cadence of Latin is considered more meditative and reverential, which is why it remains an important part of the spiritual lives of many Catholics.
The LEV’s Decision
The LEV has historically been responsible for printing and distributing many official liturgical texts, including the Liturgy of the Hours in Latin. However, for reasons that are unclear, the Latin edition has recently become less accessible. There may have been a reduced demand for Latin editions among the faithful, particularly in favor of translations into local languages. It is also possible that practical concerns such as cost, limited printing resources, or even the complexity of maintaining such a specialized publication in a changing liturgical landscape have contributed to the volumes being unavailable.
What This Means for Faithful in Latin
This development is disheartening for those who cherish the use of Latin. The potential loss of the Liturgy of the Hours in Latin, more than just a book, was a way to pray in solidarity with the Church worldwide, transcending geographic boundaries and language differences. The decision to limit its availability could be interpreted as a diminishment of the universal nature of the Church’s liturgical heritage.
For now, the faithful who wish to pray the Liturgy of the Hours in Latin may need to look to other sources, such as online platforms, independent publishers, or custom apps that offer the Latin texts. While these alternatives may offer a solution, they do not replace an actual printed breviary from the Vatican’s publishing house.
Moving Forward
While we may view this as a minor adjustment, it seems that this signals a more significant trend within the Church toward favoring more contemporary and accessible languages. Let us be mindful that Holy Mother Church continues to evolve. While Latin remains a cherished part of its heritage, the growing use of vernacular languages is becoming an undeniable reality.
I hope the Vatican will reconsider the importance of making the Latin editio typica of the Liturgy of the Hours available as a resource for those who wish to continue this venerable tradition. In the meantime, we may need to seek alternatives or even consider supporting initiatives that promote the availability of these sacred texts in their original form.
For those who still hold Latin close to their hearts, this change might feel like a loss, but let us see in it an opportunity to reflect on the diverse ways the Church continues serving its people. Regardless of the language, the Liturgy of the Hours remains an essential practice of prayer and devotion that transcends linguistic boundaries and continues to unite the faithful in a common purpose.
May the Lord give you peace,
L.A.
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