- Find a place where you'll be comfortable reading aloud. The connection of breath and speech is very important in the recitation of the Psalms. I hope to have it all formatted to be easily read on a mobile device so you can do this exercise where you'll be most comfortable.
- If possible, read this aloud with a group of people. Each piece of the order is divided into two parts for responsory groups or a cantor/response-type recitation. Praying aloud in concert and unison offers a distinct experience that should be encouraged at every available opportunity. The parts in bold are to be recited in unison, where the other two groups are to pick either the parts before the slash on each line or the parts after.
- Get the Order you are going to use up in front of you before then give yourself a few minutes to become still. Everything is included to avoid distraction as much as possible. Get prepared then begin when you (and your group) are ready.
- Pay careful attention to punctuation. Let the punctuation guide your recitation, and listen to the rhythms of your speech. Take special care to pause for breath at the slashes in each line that has them. These breaks are to be longer and more pronounced than the breaks between lines. When reading alone it may begin to sound as if each line proceeds from slash-to-slash; this is okay. When this recitation is done in two parts this rhythm will help to connect each group to each other in speech and listening.
- Listen. You are not reciting this for some audience's benefit, but for your own. Hear the words as you (and your partners) speak them.
- Respond. I am keenly interested in any feedback on the use of this tool as it is under constant development. Share your experience of it, any suggestions for improvement, or any other kind of response that comes to you
How to Use
This is intended as a practical tool for use, not for study. To this end, here are a few tips on how to use it as intended:
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