The constant noise that accompanies modern life is an enemy of God’s word being heard in prayer, Pope Benedict XVI said.
“Interior and exterior silence are necessary in order to hear that word,” and, yet, “our age does not, in fact, favor reflection and contemplation,” the Pope said March 7. On the contrary, “it seems that people are afraid to detach themselves, even for an instant, from the spate of words and images which mark and fill our days.”
The “great patristic tradition,” the Pope said, also teaches Christians that “the mysteries of Christ are linked to silence, and only in silence can the word find a place to dwell within us.”
He then explained to the pilgrims that this “principle” of silence “holds true for individual prayer” and for Catholic liturgies, which, “to facilitate authentic listening, must also be rich in moments of silence and of non-verbal acceptance.”
One of the more alarming aspects of modern liturgical life at many parishes is the conspicuous absence of silence in favor of constant activity and music, with the liturgical planners thinking that, in order to hold our attention, much like children, we must be constantly engaged and entertained.
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