Many rules of prayer have developed in the history of the Church. At no
place or time has there been a uniform rule. In 19th Century Russia, for
example, the rule varied considerably from one monastery to another,
though certain basic elements were found in all of them. Therefore, the
term "Rule of Prayer" should never be understood as a strait jacket,
regulating and limiting our communion with God.
What the Rules do teach us is the importance of regularity in our life of
prayer. It is better to say a few prayers every day without fail than to
say a great number of prayers on an irregular, impulsive basis. Those of
us who are fortunate enough to have a spiritual father should consult him
before establishing our own Rule. Those of us who do not, should begin
with a modest Rule, increasing it only when it has become a regular and
integral part of our lives.