Monk in the World Guest Post: Susan Johnson

I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Susan Johnson’s reflection and poem “Liturgy of the Hours.”

During one of Christine’s online retreats, we were invited to create our own Liturgy of the Hours. I believe that retreat was in 2020, and since that time, the following prayers have become a centerpiece of my every day. Upon awakening, I pray Lauds, and every three hours my phone alarm reminds me to continue the prayers, leading me finally to Compline. Then Matins soothes me in the deep night. These prayers are “in my bones” now, as I pause with them, sometimes silently, sometimes aloud, whether I am writing at my desk, working in the garden, hiking a trail with a friend, or even sitting in conversation with another. Throughout the hours, the prayers resonate palpably in my mind/heart center, reassuring me of the everpresence of the divine. For this I offer thanks. 

Liturgy of the Hours MatinsMay soft womb of nightSoothe our souls’ uncertaintiesStill our stormy hearts~LaudsFirst light gilds the pinesLifts us to begin againSing praises of day~PrimeBells chime, morning prayerHeron sighs at river’s edgeYes to breath of God~SextListen—Spirit singsAll earth joins in holy hymnDay’s sacred refrain~NoneRaven calls aboveNew breeze quivers aspen leavesWe gather as one~VespersPearl moon lights the pinesThree chimes summon evening prayerSilence stills our minds~ComplineMay night bind our prayersMay gratitude bless our dayMay angels guard sleep

Susan Johnson writes in Roslyn, Washington, and is a Benedictine oblate at St. Placid Priory. She is grateful to be active in a vibrant poetry community and to have had her work published in regional and national journals. Her chapbook, The Call Home, was published this spring by The Poetry Box.

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