Review 2025.04.011
Reviewers Note: It is the beginning of 2025 and one of the skills I desire to grow in is that of writing book reviews (having never done this before). I am doing this so I can better hone my writing (and reading) skills as I seek to think more critically about the books I am reading. I am sharing on Goodreads for my own personal development. I know this will be something I am always growing in so if you actually read these, please be patient with me as I develop this skill. I will also receive constructive criticism if you desire to help me become a better writer (and reader). I plan to use this disclaimer for the entire 2025 year.
Prayer in the Night by Tish Harrison Warrens
208 Pages
At the end of 2023, someone recommended this book so I put it on my wish list. It finally went on sale so I snagged it. Since I’m constantly reading a prayer book, it moved to the top of my list quickly and it did not disappoint me.
Two years ago this book probably would not have had the same effect on me but I started praying three of the Liturgy of the Hours (Lauds, Sext, Vespers) on June 1st, 2024. I had started a few months before that with just one of the hours and built my way up (when I’m trying to succeed at things I build the habits slowly). Her main encouragement was for the Compline prayer, thus the title of the book “Prayer in the Night”.
The prologue had me crying so you know that’s a good sign. She is from Texas so another good sign. Her writing style was easy, almost conversational and it all flowed smoothly. I’m not sure I had a favorite chapter because they all were so good. She makes a really good case for liturgical prayers with a focus on Compline and our need to pray for those who are weak, keep watch, and work in the night.
I only had a handful of highlights but I do not believe that is the author’s fault but mine. One of my favorite quotes was “The Latin word from which we get the word human (humanus) and the word for earth or soil (humus) spring from the same linguistic root. We are creatures of the dirt, of the dust. The word humility also comes from this root.” Father has been teaching me about humility and when I read that, I knew it was written for me.
The liturgy book I’m using, The Divine Hours, has the Compline prayer and I’m not sure when I will add this in but I’m very thankful for the author and her encouragement in this area. I see the benefit in her life and I know it will be beneficial for me too. Even if you are not interested in liturgical prayer, this is a good book for the general encouragement towards prayer in a broader sense. I recommend this book to people who want to grow in their prayer life.