The Little Office of Baltimore: A Traditional Office for American Laity

Little Office of Baltimore

Compiled from the prayers of the Third Plenary Council of Baltimore · Published by TAN Books

Overview

The Baltimore Catechism formed generations of Catholics and provided a solid foundation in the faith for millions. Yet fewer people know that the same council responsible for the catechism—the Third Plenary Council of Baltimore—also produced a manual of prayers (Imprimatur 1888). Drawing from this rich spiritual heritage, Little Office of Baltimore presents a compact devotional edition based on the prayers found in that historic manual.

With its distinctly American Catholic pedigree and its roots in pre-twentieth-century liturgical tradition, this prayerbook offers modern readers a beautiful way to enter into the rhythm of traditional Catholic prayer. It condenses the much larger Office of Baltimore into a portable volume designed for daily use, containing prayers for the traditional hours, devotions to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the saints, and psalms suited for various occasions.

Rooted in the structure of the traditional Roman Office—which traces its essentials back to Saint Benedict—this edition preserves the devotional richness of earlier Catholic prayer while remaining accessible for lay Catholics today.

What This Prayerbook Provides

• Prayers for the traditional hours throughout the day
• Devotions honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary and the saints
• Psalms and prayers suited for different occasions
• A compact format ideal for daily use
• A devotional connection to historic American Catholic spirituality

From the Tradition

“This is a charming little book made of refreshing poems inspired by the liturgy, and of stimulating pictures drawn mainly from monastic life. One should leisurely enjoy it and let it affect peace in the soul of an evening.”

— Fr. Francis Bethel, OSB

Intended Audience

Little Office of Baltimore is especially appealing to traditional-minded English-speaking Catholics who desire a deeper connection to historic devotional practices. It is well suited for lay Catholics seeking a structured rhythm of prayer throughout the day.

It also makes an excellent gift for new Catholics, those preparing for or recently receiving Confirmation, and anyone interested in the heritage of American Catholic spirituality.

FAQs

Is this based on the Baltimore Catechism?
It draws from the prayer manual produced by the same council that issued the Baltimore Catechism, the Third Plenary Council of Baltimore.

Is this a full breviary?
No. It is a condensed devotional prayerbook inspired by the traditional Roman Office and intended for use by the laity.

Is it suitable for daily prayer?
Yes. The compact design and structured prayers make it ideal for praying throughout the day.