In the grounds of our Convent, we have two hermitages. These are frequented by numerous people from many different walks of life: priests, religious and laity alike, all seeking time in silence and stillness with God. The sisters in my community also use the hermitages as we are all obliged to a time of silent retreat once a year which is a great gift and something we all look forward to! For many, the prospect of several days in total silence can be an intimidating one, no internet, no phones…living in a noise saturated world makes this transition seem quite a challenge, however, it is also a great invitation. As St. John of the Cross wrote, ‘the language God hears best is silent love.’
Whilst not all of us may have the opportunity to have a silent retreat, trying to cultivate spaces of silence in our day-to-day lives can be possible and is essential. God speaks most powerfully into silence. Within silence lies an invitation to draw closer to him, to encounter him more fully. But it can be a great challenge as we also encounter ourselves. The aspects of ourselves that we may not like, memories we try to evade, thoughts we try to smother. And yet, God’s hand can be upon this too. He wishes to embrace in love every part of us, so when these more uncomfortable sensations arise, pray for the grace to see them through God’s eyes, with love, mercy and forgiveness. No part of ourselves can be denied the embrace of his healing love.
With a bit of creativity, there are numerous ways we can create space for silence in our lives. Switching off the background noise of music and TV, having a go at travelling to work in silence and conversing with God instead, beginning and starting our days with a moment of silence, immersing ourselves in the presence of God who constantly is with us.
St Catherine of Siena also offers us some good advice. Throughout her busy, apostolic life travelling around recognised that she could cultivate a ‘cell of the heart.’ A space within where she could be, in an interior way, alone with God. This takes time and practice but is a great gift. To have that awareness of God’s presence within oneself and to recognise we can enter into conversation with him at any time. With diligence, practice, and openness to God’s grace, a deep oasis of peace can be cultivated so that even amidst the chaos of life, this ‘cell’ this ‘hermitage’ of stillness can remain untouched within.
