How to Prayerfully Read a Liturgy
Picture taken by Christina of my friend Rev Hannah posing under a framed picture of Jesus praying
Liturgies help provide language for hard to articulate thoughts and feelings, and ways to respond accordingly. They are a dynamic form of prayer—acting as a dialogue between you and God, and all those participating. As you read a liturgy the words form you personally and alongside others.
You Can Use a Liturgy:
In your personal time of prayer
In a church service
Alongside a loved one
With your family
In a small group or prayer circle
In a class or workshop
How-to Read a Liturgy:
With a leader.
Typically, a leader reads the fine print and the other participants read the bold print. For instance, in a church service the priest may lead and the congregation responds. This creates a call-and-response style of prayer.
On your own.
You can also adapt liturgies to meet your needs, or the needs of your context. You may want to read a liturgy alone, knowing the bold text is being said in unison with other’s spiritually even if they aren’t physically present.
In a group.
In a group, consider trading off who leads. You could alternate by going around in a circle or assigning different roles.
Alongside diverse voices.
Liturgies are especially rich when they include diverse voices. Consider ways to include people of different racial identities, ages, or cultural heritages. Hearing from myriad voices enacts the unifying work of the prayer.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Liturgy:
Take a deep breath and a moment of silence, knowing that you are in God’s presence.
As you begin, read slowly, articulating each word.
Pause after each line, letting the words sink into your heart, mind, and body. You may want to take another deep breath during each thought transition.
As you read, notice how these words resonate with God's Spirit in you and unite you to God's Spirit in others (whether present or in Christ’s universal body).
If you are leading others, remember to personally connect to the words. Focus on what the words mean to you while they are forming you alongside others.
Notice what feelings are evoked with certain words or phrases. You may want to allow time to express or embody the feeling.
Pay attention to what action this liturgy is calling you to take, whether a practical step or a change in consciousness.
If you agree with this call to action, accept the challenge. Know that God will give you the grace you need to carry it out.
Close with another moment of silence. Simply rest. God’s Spirit is alive in you, working on your behalf, and will now complete the work that has been started.