Liturgy of the Hours, Second Edition
In November 2012, the U.S. Bishops voted to revise the translation of the Liturgy of the Hours in light of the Roman Missal, Third Edition and the 2001 Vatic...
www.usccb.orgHere’s what’s most up-to-date on the Liturgy of the Hours (as of May 2026):
Core update
- The Vatican has given final approval for a new edition of the Liturgy of the Hours, with publication anticipated in 2027. The initial volume is expected to cover Lent and Easter, aiming to take effect for Ash Wednesday in 2027. This marks a long-running revision process that began around 2012 with translations updated to reflect the Latin originals more accurately.[1][2]
Publishers and rollout
- Ascension Press and Word on Fire Publishing were announced as publishers for the new edition, signaling a coordinated launch that will accompany the papal decree of publication and subsequent distribution for parishes and lay readers. The plan envisions a four-volume work, with practical timing that the first volume (Lent and Easter) could reach communities by early 2027.[2]
Background and context
- The Liturgy of the Hours, also known as the Divine Office, is a central daily prayer of the Church, traditionally regulated for clergy but increasingly encouraged for lay faithful as a means to pray with the entire People of God. Revisions have historically focused on alignment with the Roman Missal and more faithful English translations of Latin texts.[6]
What this means for you
- If you or your parish follow the standard English edition, anticipate new breviaries and supplemental volumes beginning to appear in 2027, cascading from Lent/Easter coverage to other liturgical seasons in subsequent volumes.[1][2]
- For personal practice, you can start acquainting yourself with the current structure of the Liturgy of the Hours and be prepared for updated translations when the new edition becomes available. Liturgical experts and parish leaders are encouraging communities to begin integrating the Liturgy of the Hours in anticipation of the revised text.[3][1]
Illustrative note
- The process illustrates a 13-year pathway from initial revision decisions to Vatican approval, emphasizing renewed fidelity to Latin sources and coordinated publishing efforts to support both clergy and lay prayer life.[2]
Cited sources
- Vatican final approval and 2027 publication plan. OSV News coverage of the same development and publishers. Background on the Liturgy of the Hours and its role in prayer life. Readers and communities encouraged to begin engaging with the Hours in light of revisions.[3][6][1][2]