Episode 2420: The Sacredness of Silence in Our Churches with Sharon

The Sacredness of Silence in Our Churches
Sharon: Welcome back to Catholic Reboot, where today we're exploring a topic that's close to the heart of many traditional Catholics and that is the importance of silence in our churches. Have we become so uncomfortable with silence that we feel the need to fill every moment with sound, even in our sacred spaces? Let's reflect on this issue through the lens of our great saints and the teachings of the Church. But before getting started let me start with a prayer.
Heavenly Father,

We come before You in this moment, seeking Your presence and guidance. We thank You for the gift of silence, a sacred space where we can encounter Your divine love and wisdom. As we gather to reflect on the importance of silence in our churches and our lives, we ask for the intercession of the great saints who have taught us the value of quiet contemplation.

Lord, open our hearts to hear Your voice in the stillness. Grant us the grace to embrace silence, to find peace in Your presence, and to draw closer to You in our quiet moments. May our discussion today inspire all who listen to seek You more earnestly and to cultivate the sacredness of silence in their own spiritual journeys.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Noise of Modern Life
Sharon: In today's fast-paced world, we're constantly bombarded with noise. Whether it's the hum of traffic, the chatter of social media, or the endless stream of entertainment, silence has become a rare commodity. This constant noise follows us even into our parishes and shrines, where relaxing music or chant often plays nonstop. But is this really necessary? And what are we losing by not embracing silence?
The Value of Silence
Sharon: Silence is more than just the absence of noise; it's a profound and sacred space where we can encounter God. The great saints understood this well. St. John of the Cross, a Doctor of the Church, wrote extensively about the importance of silence and solitude in our spiritual lives. He said, "Silence is God's first language." In silence, we create room for God to speak to us, to touch our hearts, and to guide us.
Teachings from the Saints
Sharon: Let's consider the wisdom of St. Teresa of Avila, who emphasized the importance of silent prayer. She advised her sisters to seek solitude and silence, saying, "We need no wings to go in search of Him but have only to look upon Him present within us." Silence allows us to focus inward, to find Christ dwelling within our souls.
St. Benedict, the father of Western monasticism, also highlighted the value of silence in his Rule. He believed that silence was essential for fostering a contemplative spirit. "Listen with the ear of your heart," he instructed. For Benedictines, silence is not just a practice but a way of life, integral to their connection with God.
The Modern Church and Silence
Sharon: In many modern parishes, the constant background music can be a distraction rather than an aid to prayer. While music has its place in liturgy and can uplift our spirits, we must also recognize the importance of silence. The Second Vatican Council's Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium, reminds us that "the liturgy is the summit toward which the activity of the Church is directed" and emphasizes the need for periods of silence during Mass.
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, in his writings and teachings, often spoke about the necessity of silence in our churches. He said, "We live in a society in which it seems that every space, every moment must be 'filled' with initiatives, activities, sounds. Often there is not even time to listen or to converse."
Sacred Scripture discusses Sacred Silence
You know I always have to bring scripture into everyone of my episodes and so here it is:
1 Kings 19:11-12 (Douay-Rheims Version):
"And he said to him: Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord: and behold the Lord passeth, and a great and strong wind before the Lord, overthrowing the mountains, and breaking the rocks in pieces: the Lord is not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake: the Lord is not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire: the Lord is not in the fire. And after the fire a whistling of a gentle air."
This passage recounts Elijah's encounter with God, who was present in the "whistling of a gentle air," emphasizing that God often speaks in the stillness and silence.
Psalm 46:10 (Douay-Rheims Version):
"Be still and see that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, and I will be exalted in the earth."
This verse calls for stillness, recognizing God's sovereignty and presence.
Habakkuk 2:20 (Douay-Rheims Version):
"But the Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him."
This verse underscores the reverence and silence due in the presence of the Lord.
Zephaniah 1:7 (Douay-Rheims Version):
"Be silent before the face of the Lord God: for the day of the Lord is near, for the Lord hath prepared a victim, he hath sanctified his guests."
A call for silence in anticipation of God's judgment and presence.
Lamentations 3:26 (Douay-Rheims Version):
"It is good to wait with silence for the salvation of God."
This verse highlights the virtue of waiting in silence for God's deliverance.
Isaiah 30:15 (Douay-Rheims Version):
"For thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: If you return and be quiet, you shall be saved: in silence and in hope shall your strength be. And you would not."
Here, God emphasizes that strength and salvation come through quietness and trust.
Ecclesiastes 3:7 (Douay-Rheims Version):
"A time to rend, and a time to sew. A time to keep silence, and a time to speak."
This verse reminds us that there is a proper time for silence, just as there is for speaking.
Psalm 62:1 (Douay-Rheims Version):
"Shall not my soul be subject to God? for from him is my salvation."
This speaks of the soul waiting in silence for God, it reflects the idea of silent submission and trust in God.
Practical Steps to Embrace Silence
Sharon: So, how can we reclaim the sacredness of silence in our churches?
Designated Silent Times: Parishes can designate specific times for silent prayer, ensuring that those who seek silence can find it.
Silent Zones: Creating 'silent zones' within the church where no background music is played can provide a haven for those seeking peace and quiet.
Education and Awareness: Educating parishioners about the importance of silence in their spiritual lives can foster a deeper appreciation for quiet moments.
Conclusion:
Sharon: Silence is a gift, a profound and sacred space where we can encounter God more intimately. As we reflect on the wisdom of the saints and the teachings of the Church, let's strive to cultivate more silence in our parishes and in our lives. Thank you for joining me today. Let's conclude with a moment of silence, inviting God's presence into our hearts.