It depends on the liturgy, and the Rite and tradition to which you belong. Speaking as a Catholic, of the Roman Rite: For the Liturgy of the Hours, especially Morning and Evening Prayer (Lauds and Vespers), the structure is basically like this: * ... read more
The liturgy of the word and the Eucharistic liturgy, with the rites of introduction and conclusion,"are so closely interconnected that they form but one single act of worship." There is an intrinsic bond between the word of God and the Eucharist. read more