Befriending Silence takes us in the back door and then into the life of Cistercian spirituality. As a lay Cistercian, the author writes this book in conversational language without losing the beauty of the practice of silence. He shows us, through a carefully written overview, the reasons why a person would (not should) seek to become a monk, in particular, a Cistercian monk. This is a kind treatment, one with affection and grace, that seeks to enlighten the reader to the joy of quietness in the presence of God, where words are not required and openness with God is rich and meaningful.
I am not of the liturgical community, but I have found the richness of what McColman speaks. There is much to be gained when one follows a spirituality of contemplation, where we listen and tune our focus and personhood to this ancient practice. I appreciate the fair treatment and information given. A few questions of mine were answered through the reading of this book. I love the title! 

The content in this book is for the person who finds themselves in the middle of any kind of crisis, and it is for the person contemplating or wrestling with the meaning of faith in the context of life events. Faith in The Night covers many of those sticky areas that quite often trip us up, those times when God doesn’t rush in and make everything better when we wish He would or those times when He seems to withhold His blessings from us. This book is part philosophy and part spiritual mixed together as a promise of hope for those in need of it (which is everyone).    
     Andrew Budek-Schmeisser unfolds for us his personal perspectives on God, human suffering, the why, the devil’s gotcha, God’s promises, divine and human miracles, unpretentious prayer, the need for community, and practical suggestions to help people maintain during the hard times. His spiritual take is not the usual, but it makes a lot of sense. I find his views kind, thoughtful, and engaging because he doesn’t cast blame, shame, or voice a whine of regret. He accepts what is. The author promotes the need to engage in life despite or in-spite of negative circumstances.
     What makes this book particularly apropos is Budek-Schmeisser’s own journey of hardship as he chooses life and giving of self while fighting against illness and an encroaching end of life scenario, but for God. Faith in the Night will make you think, and it hits all the right notes. It gets to the point without belaboring the effort.