Absence Quote by Anonymous
“This gathered worship, as Quakers call it, is not only absence of noise. Gathered worship springs from the reverent, silent expectation that God will come among the people. The silence deepens as we feel ourselves drawn beautifully to God and each other. Our hearts and souls burst with thanksgiving-a thanksgiving best expressed by silence. Silence growing from awe is the natural human response to hints of the Divine.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Quaker tradition, 20th century
Quiet, collective worship deepens reverence, allowing divine presence to be felt through shared silence and gratitude.
In simple terms: Silence deepens worship.
Cultivate reverent silence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- religious gatherings
- personal meditation
- group retreats
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does silence affect your sense of the divine?
- What practices help you enter reverent silence?
Silence may be uncomfortable for some participants.