Martyrology at Prime outside of Choir?

[jesusalright4me]

Hey! Got a question for those who pray the Extraordinary Form Divine Office in accordance with the rubrics.

Is the Martyrology optional at Prime outside of choir/in solo recitation? That Baronius Press breviary I have seems to imply that it is, saying that it is only “appropriate” to say it in solo recitation, not required.

And, if it is not required, do I just end Prime after the collect, or do I pick up later?

Disclaimer: yes, I am a layman. No, I am not obliged to say the Office. But observing the liturgical norms is extremely important to me.

 

[OraLabora]

ISTM that the only martyrology in force right now is the current one. Any from before the Council will be seriously out of date, there have been lots of saints since the 1962 breviary was published!

The current Martyrology has rubrics for its proclamation within the Liturgy of the Hours, or outside of the Liturgy of the Hours. Obviously in private recitation, just reading it is fine. Typically it often associated with Chapter in monasteries. I read the Martyrology just after I’ve read the daily chapter of the Rule of St. Benedict + commentary, and just before Compline.

As I’m sure you’re aware, the Martyrology is read in anticipation of the next day, even at Prime (which is said in the early morning). So at Prime tomorrow you’ll be reading the saints for Sunday.

But you don’t have to say it at Prime. The rubrics of the current Martyrology should be the ones that Rule even in the EF Office.

You can say it with Prime, Lauds or whatever, or simply stand-alone as I do. All good. You’d end Prime with the collect if you don’t append the Martyrology.

 

[KMG]

The 1962 Martyrology is perfectly in force for those using the 1962 Breviary. And yes, it is always optional in private recitation.

 

[KMG]

Addendum. All the religious communities that use the 1962 books use the 1962 Martyrology. Which, conveniently, is also in print not only in Latin, but in an English translation.