Fr. Howie is writing a series of “Praying Shapes Believing” articles that appear in our weekly Sunday worship bulletins. Whether it is your first time, or your thousandth, reading, reciting, and praying the traditional Rite II worship from the Book of Common Prayer, it is worthwhile to ask why. We will examine some of our prayers and collects to help us find more meaning and connection in the ritual. See all topics in the Praying Shapes Believing series.
The Psalter
As with the lessons, there is a cycle of Psalms sung or recited at the Eucharist. Some appear repeatedly, others not at all.
What is it?
The Psalms are often described as the hymn book of the Temple in Jerusalem. They likely were used in services there, and appeared in Christian worship by the 4th Century.
Why do we do it?
The rhythm and poetry of the Psalms opens to us emotions and images of God that might be difficult to express in any other way. The “word pictures” found in them have shaped our faith and fueled our imaginations for generations.
What it says about God
Poetry brings us nearer to the mystery of God.
Messages for how we live
Creativity enriches our faith.
God is with us in every imaginable emotional “place” that we may go.