This month we will finish our look at the service of Matins (LSB Pg. 219-228) by looking at Prayer. The Prayer begins with the Kyrie, which again is the Latin word for “Lord,” we seek the Lord’s mercy knowing that we do not deserve what we pray for as Luther’s small catechism reminds us in the 5th petition of the Lord’s prayer. We then continue with the Lord’s prayer praying for all our needs in this life as well as the needs of others.
 

This leads into the collects, which are the petitions that we as a congregation bring before the Lord. The Liturgist or Pastor will bring the congregation before the Lord to receive the Lord’s blessings. The collect of the day is then prayed; the collect of the day reflects either a liturgical holiday or the readings for that day; this is then followed by other prayers that are related to the needs of the people. You are always welcome to fill out the prayer cards so that we can pray for the things that you have need of. This includes thanksgiving, giving thanks to God for answered prayers, thanksgiving for needs met, thanksgiving for healing, for the mending of relationships and the like.
 

Then, much like compline, we end with the Benedi Camus, which is Latin for “Let us bless the Lord.” Concluding with the Benediction, the Lord’s blessings upon you.

Matins is a wonderful way to begin your morning, whether it is by yourself, your family, or with your church family. These daily offices work to serve you God’s Word and blessings in an ordered manner, so I pray that Matins serves you well.
 

Next month we will start looking at the service of Vespers.
 

Christ blessings

Rev. David J. Walsh