Singing and the recitation of various Psalms has a special place in Benedictine spirituality. In Chapter Nine of the Rule, St. Benedict describes a typical “Vigil” (nighttime gathering of the monks):
“During the winter season, Vigils begin with the verse: Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall proclaim your praise (Ps 50[51]:17). After this has been said three times, the following order is observed: Psalm 3 with “Glory be to the Father”; Psalm 94 with a refrain, or at least chanted; an Abrosian hymn; then six psalms with refrain.
After the psalmody, a versicle is said and the abbot gives a blessing. When all are seated on the benches, the brothers in turn read three selections from the book on the lectern. After each reading a responsory is sung. “Glory be to the Father” is not sung after the first two responsories, but only after the third reading. As soon as a the cantor begins to sing “Glory be to the Father,” let all the monks rise from their seats in honor and reverence for the Holy Trinity. Besides the inspired books of the Old and New Testaments, the works read at Vigils should include explanations of Scripture by reputable and orthodox catholic Fathers.
When these three readings and their responsories have been finished, the remaining six psalms are sung with an “alleluia” refrain. This ended, there follows a reading from the Apostle recited by heart, a versicle and the litany, that is, “Lord have mercy." And so Vigils are concluded.”
This vigil makes use of 15 Psalms.