not feel satisfied from Mass. Being the new person isn't easy
but listening to the same language over and over again will
help you learn some key grammar and help with pronunciation.
* Find a Missal or Mass book: A Mass book will help those who
have a visual memory. Read and listen to the Mass and soon you
will be able to say the 'Our Father' and the 'Apostles Creed'!
* Say the Rosary: Continuous repetition of the prayers will help
you to remember them and say them fluently. You will soon be
saying the 'Hail Mary' at lightening speeds like the locals!
* Meet the Priest: After church you can introduce yourself 'My
name is.., I am from ..' and ask if he has any free time to meet.
Use a diary and a pen to arrange a time to meet. This gives the
Priest time to prepare. I advise you to take some photos to 'break
the ice'. Photos also help to explain who you are and where you
have come from when language is a problem.
* Ask the Priest: If you need a Mass book or a hymn book ask the
priest.
* Go to Confession: Ask the Priest or a friend from church for the
words. Saying your sins is a perfect way to practice your past
tenses 'I swore and I argued with my brother'.
* Prepare before Mass: Read the readings and gospel in your
language before Mass, then listen to them in church. With time
you will understand more and more.
* Sing: Singing at Mass can help with your pronunciation. The
words are often sung slowly therefore they are often easier than
the spoken words of the Mass.
* Don't be afraid: The church is God your Father's house, so don't
be afraid to join the choir or take up the communion offering or
help with church cleaning. If you are a musician, offer your
services. They are all great ways to make new friends.
I have been teaching English for a number of years and took this opportunity to test some of my own teaching methods on myself. I am quite a good person for this test because I use auditory, visual and kinesthetic methods to learn and I use these skills equally.
Above are a few of my favourite language learning tips. I was expecting to rely purely on traditional language learning techniques and my own methods for learning and responding to the new language around me. I was lucky enough to be placed in a town with very few English speakers. There was a great need in me learning this new language, not only for practical purposes, such as catching buses, going to the post office or buying food but also for feeling a part of the community in order to feel comfortable. On reflextion of my time in the Czech Republic, the church and my faith were of most help in learning my new language.