Space For Silence

This morning our celebrant at Mass sat down in his presider's chair in silence instead of giving a homily.  It was a welcome moment that needed no introduction.  We could hear the silence; how blessed it was and such a contrast to Friday night when dressed as Santas and Elfs, members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Lawrence sang their way into several local restaurants, announcing on a bull horn that we were there to raise money to help continue the projects we sponsor to help the youth serviced by the Boys and Girls Club, the YMCA and Lazarus House. A noble, and enjoyable task.  For the most part we were welcomed with warmth, laughter, joyful singing and amazing generosity.  At one crowded restaurant I was distracted, however, by at how the patrons were being bombarded by several large TVs on all sides screening a football game, an army of waiters and waitresses addressing the needs of the tables, which were nearly on top of each other, and us with our Rudolphs and Frostys.  Noise pollution at its best.  The sad thing is that noise has become a way of life, we are used to it and accept it because few of us remember anything different.  The contrasting silence this morning was soothingly deafening and spoke of the need this Advent to make space in our lives for more of it.  How else can we think, let alone reflect on the meaning of Christmas and our need to prepare for it? More silence, less noise. Amen!
Bro. Rene