The search for intimacy with God and the practice of fraternal love open to the mystery of others involves the truly vital need of a silence embracing the whole being (ET 46).

Outside the times and places designated for recreation, silence shall be a constant norm. We shall love silence, then, understanding its profound significance, realizing it to be such a powerful aid in the practice of virtue, favoring personal maturity, prudence and control of the will and helping create, moreover, a quiet and peaceful environment so essential for prayer, work and rest. As part of our daily life, silence is a means to help us maintain a spirit of recollection and union with God.

Normally we shall observe silence except on Thursdays, Sundays and special feasts, strengthening our spirit with appropriate spiritual reading. During Advent and Lent a more profound environment of silence is observed.