If you are ever fortunate to visit Rome, you will no doubt visit many churches. There was one church in Rome (perhaps it still is so) where visitors were politely reminded on repeat through the PA system, “Shhh… silenzio. Shhh… silenzio, per favore” (silence please).
While we often speak and sing, our participation in the liturgy also calls on us to engage in silence. Silent prayer is a way in which we encounter the Divine. We know the prophet Elijah recognised the presence of God, not in the fire, wind or earthquake, but in sheer silence.
Silence is also a powerful act of honour and reverence. Australians stand in silence on Anzac Day to honour the fallen. Moments of great awe literally leave us speechless, unable to adequately express our thoughts and feelings in words.
The Easter Triduum celebration also calls us to observe silence. Eucharistic Adoration at the Altar of Repose, our observance of Good Friday, and the hours of Saturday leading into the Easter Vigil, invite us to reflect on the passion and death of Christ more intensely in the silence of our hearts.
As we both engage in prayer and honour the death of Christ over the coming days, we encourage you to enter into silence. While we may run into people we haven’t seen in a while, and want to connect with others, please allow our church and parish centre to be spaces where our community can enter into this sacred time.that you belong to Christ, his Church, and his mission.
Published in our parish bulletin, Carmel, 29 March 2026
Liturgy 