From The Rectory How are you on silences? Some people love them, others can’t bear them. Although a naturally noisy person, I very much value silence. I’m not one of these people who must have a radio or TV on if I am in the house on my own, and there are times when I actively seek silence. One of these times is on my annual retreat; another time is during Lent. This year I am combining both as I am going off on a week’s retreat during Lent. Normally I go to a silent retreat house, but this year the dates didn’t suit so I know there will be some talking at meal times and in public areas at the retreat house I’m going to, but there are chapels and prayer rooms and I will spend the times in between meals in prayerful silence, some of it outdoors if the weather is kind. Silence, even for those of us who love it, can be challenging. When we stop our usual frenzy of activities and slow down and listen to ourselves, we find that things bubble up, perhaps things that we have pushed out of our minds and are surprised to remember. Some of these memories may be pleasant, others not so, and need acknowledging and dealing with. That is why there are retreat directors available, so that there is someone to talk to in complete confidence, someone you may never see again. It is a time when we get to know ourselves a little better, and give God a look in. I can’t offer anyone a week away, but I can offer an hour or more ‘out’. On the Wednesday of Holy Week the church at Horsenden will be open for the day for people to drop in and sit quietly, for as long or short a time as they wish, and there will be aids to prayer there, themed on Holy Week, should you wish to use them. The Revd Rose Williams or I will be in the background in case anyone feels the need to talk something over. So this Lent, give silence a go if you haven’t tried it before – and in that silence, may you know the touch of God upon you. With love and prayer Jennifer PS You might be interested in: http://www.worthabbey.net/bbc/thebigsilenceindex.htm
