Christ the Holy Silence

Suzanne Zoole

acrylic on wood

12" x 16"

2001

Christ the Holy Silence is portrayed as an angel in this icon. The gesture of the hands folded over the body is one that in many cultures invites silence. The icon was painted during a five day silent retreat at Mepkin Abbey, a Trappist monastery in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. The icon represents for me a call from Christ to eliminate the chatter of our lives and the many petitions to him and to simply listen. The icon reminds me that simply being quiet with the intent to meet God is healing and whole-making. Listening in silence may not guarantee that we will hear God or feel his presence, but this silence will create a receptivity that will tune the ear of our hearts to him. Prayerful silence can be deep and rich and create for us children of God an open place, an open field in which we can meet God.