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Tower Topics ~ Spring 2007 |
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Silence: The fundamental of peace
Monasteries offer an extraordinary gift to those who visit them: Silence. In today's fast-paced, hectic world, constant noise abounds, words assault us from all directions. Indeed, a moment without sound can be even startling. Therefore, there is a great need for a place where a person can go to be apart, a place insulated from distractions. A place of silence. In silence we can be led to find ourselves, to appreciate our neighbors, and to know God in new and wholly unexpected ways. For centuries monasteries have thrived as places of prayer, solitude – and silence. Silence provides that essential space where one can tap into what is fundamental. Here at Conception Abbey we welcome thousands of people each year who are seeking that space of silence, so evasive in their noisy, busy, workaday world. Whether top-level executive or homemaker, whether hospice nurse or construction worker, our guests wearily tell us that the pressures of life often snuff out what little time they hope to set aside for prayer and reflection. When life is so full of “things to do” without respite, they recognize that something is missing, just out of reach. In this issue of Tower Topics, you will read about a priest alumnus of Conception Seminary College who recently published the book Silence: A Lost Treasure in a Noisy World. In his book Father John Kappe, a pastor in the Diocese of Galveston-Houston in Texas, shares the many gifts that silence can provide in our world today. While a student at Conception Seminary College, young John Kappe came to appreciate the way we monks enjoyed the treasure of silence available in the spiritual life. In a recent Angelus Address (Nov. 19, 2006), Pope Benedict XVI praised the gift of silence that monastic communities offer to the contemporary world: “In the face of the widespread need to get away from the daily routine of sprawling urban areas in search of places conducive to silence and meditation, monasteries of contemplative life offer themselves as 'oases' in which human beings, pilgrims on earth, can draw more easily from the wellsprings of the Spirit and quench their thirst along the way.” In choosing as his own patron the Father of western monasticism, Pope Benedict clearly signals to the modern world his belief that the age-old traditions of monasticism are a treasure of inestimable value in a frenetic and fast-paced world. As monks, our vow of stability binds us to this holy place called Conception Abbey, where most of the members of our community live and work day in and day out. One of our most important works is to provide hospitality for others who seek a place to pray, to reflect, and to be silent. We find that in a world where many people experience alienation, anxiety and fear, monasteries can be havens of rest, warmth and rediscovered peace. The season of Lent is a time of spiritual renewal. Please find some time for silence, even if it means setting aside an hour, a day, or even a week. A read through Father Kappe's book might provide a handy instruction manual. If your search for silence happens to lead you to the doors of Conception Abbey, know that you are always welcome. Sincerely in Christ, We welcome your comments: |
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Dear Friends,