Christian Cyclopedia

RC liturgical book containing all that is necessary to enable a cleric to recite daily Divine Office assigned to the canonical hours.* Divided into 4 books for the 4 seasons. The primitive office consisted of Psalms and Scripture lessons. Under Ambrose* hymns and antiphons were added; responsories, canticles, collects, and other elaborations began with Benedict* of Nursia. In the Middle Ages lives of saints tended to replace Psalms and the Scriptures. Recited by priests and clerics. Many religious orders have their own breviaries. See also Popes, 21; Service Books.