There are moments when we need to take time to let the scripture readings “sink in” so to speak. We need to allow time for the word to enter into our ears, work through our minds and grow in our hearts. This cannot happen if we race through the Liturgy of the Word without pausing for a moment or two of silence. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal states, “at the conclusion of a reading or homily, all meditate briefly on what has been heard.” There are other moments in the liturgy that we should observe silence. We don’t need to be afraid of being quiet. In our culture we are constantly bombarded with sound. Noise from equipment, vehicles, television and even the radio interfere with finding quiet time. We should embrace silent moments in the liturgy if for nothing else than to take a deep breath and enjoy the quiet. We can reflect on the words just proclaimed and listen for a response from God.