Matins is the historic morning office of the Church, a liturgical service of psalms, readings, and prayer that sanctifies the first hours of the day with God’s Word and praise.

  • Opening & Invitatory – The service begins with the prayer, “O Lord, open my lips,” and the singing of the Venite (“O Come, let us sing to the Lord”), calling us into the worship of the day.
  • Psalmody & Hymn – The congregation prays the psalms and sings a morning hymn, joining in the song of the Church across time and place.
  • Readings & Canticle – God’s Word is read (usually including both an Epistle or Prophecy and a Gospel reading), a brief homily or devotional meditation is given by one of the pastors, followed by the Church’s great songs of praise: the Te Deum (“We praise You, O God”) or the Benedictus (Song of Zechariah).
  • Prayers – Intercessions are offered for the Church and the world, culminating in the Lord’s Prayer.
  • Collect & Benediction – The service closes with the Collect for Grace, asking God’s protection and blessing for the day, and with the Benediction.

The prayer office of Matins centers the life of the Christian in God’s Word, prayer, and praise, setting the tone for the day by beginning with Christ.