In daily life, silence is often perceived as the absence of noise or words coming from the outside. Yet it can become a sacred space where we internalize the Word of God, as well as the words of others and our own; a place inhabited by contemplation, drawing us into a deeper and more intimate relationship with God.
In the world we live in, constant noise grows ever more present. Therefore, silence stands as a true spiritual practice, a source of deep rest, and a means of revealing what lies within us.
In the Bible, when God manifests Himself to Elijah, several sounds occur —wind, thunder, earthquake, fire— yet God does not speak through them, but rather in the “gentle whisper”, in the silence. Psalm 46:10 invites us: “Be still, and know that I am God.” To be silent is to lay down our burdens and surrender to the sovereignty of God. It is in this inner silence that we can hear His voice, welcome His peace, and allow the living water promised by Christ to flow within us.
We experience this when we step away from the city or our neighborhoods to withdraw to a quiet and peaceful place —whether in a day of recollection, a time in the desert, or a pilgrimage— in order to renew our relationship with God, with others, and especially with ourselves.
For both religious sisters and lay people committed to the life of the Church, the practice of silence enables us to give God the floor and remain attentive to Him, as the hymn says: “Listen to the voice of the Lord, incline the ear of your heart…” God always has something to tell us, but it requires rest, silence… true silence. Meditation, silent prayer, and contemplation are all ways of entering into this human and spiritual attitude.
In this disposition, we reap many fruits: serenity, zeal to live our mission and our life with God, and the capacity to see all things in Him, with surrender and love. Silence brings us great good; we should not be afraid of it.
Sister Léonie of the Eucharist
Province of Madagascar