The Rule of Benedict

Chapter 19
The Discipline of
Psalmody

We believe that the divine presence is every-where and "that in every place the eyes of the Lord are watching the good and the wicked" (Prov 15:3). But beyond the least doubt we should believe this to be especially true when we celebrate the divine office. We must always re-member, therefore, what the Prophet says: "Serve the Lord with fear" (Ps 2:11), and again, "Sing praise wisely" (Ps 46[47]:8); and, "In the presence of the angels I will sing to you" (Ps 137[138]:1. Let us consider, then, how we ought to behave in the presence of God and his angels, and let us stand to sing the psalms in such a way that our minds are in harmony with our voices.