Of the book entitled 'The Order of Vespers, the Midnight Office, Matins, etc.'

[Francis Mathew]

In search of a book containing the order of Compline I found this book which also bears the title "Clergy Service Book", published by Holy Trinity Monastery, Jordanville. I understand it to be the book containing the All-Night Vigil according to Russian Use. I would be grateful if any member could tell me in what ways it differs from the All-Night Vigil book published by the same monastery, and about its suitability to the use of a layman. Does it contain further rubrics?

[Fr Raphael Vereshack]

In search of a book containing the order of Compline I found this book which also bears the title "Clergy Service Book", published by Holy Trinity Monastery, Jordanville. I understand it to be the book containing the All-Night Vigil according to Russian Use. I would be grateful if any member could tell me in what ways it differs from the All-Night Vigil book published by the same monastery, and about its suitability to the use of a layman. Does it contain further rubrics?

The Clergy Service Book is that book which the clergy use for serving. For the most part it only contains those parts of the services done by the clergy but not by the readers & singers

Therefore the All Night Vigil book (along with the other books needed for the service) is the book definitely needed for the choir and readers.

I also do not see why this latter book would not be something useful for the laity in general in order to be guided along through the service.

Another way to learn however is to be part of the choir and try to follow what the reders are doing, the books they use, etc.

In Christ- Fr Raphael

[Francis Mathew]

Thank you, Reverend Sir.

f.m.