El silencio como punto de equilibrio entre la oración y la misión.

Abstract

This paper presents the results of research emerging from the dialogue between the Franciscan tradition and contemporary evangelizing demands, using as a hermeneutical corpus the writings of Saint Mary Bernarda Bütler, founder of the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians. Using a critical methodology that integrates hermeneutical analysis with practical theology, the research addresses the apparent 3 dialectical tension between contemplative silence and missionary praxis. The central question asks how the virtue of silence, far from constituting a denial of evangelizing action, is configured as a fundamental epistemological principle for discernment and authenticity in Christian discipleship. The study articulates three methodological dimensions: first, contemporary theological exploration of silence and mission; second, hermeneutical theological analysis of the letters of Saint Maria Bernarda from her biographical and ecclesial context; third, the proposal of formative guidelines that integrate contemplation and action. The theological relevance of this research lies in its ability to challenge contemporary pastoral activism from a contemplative perspective that does not renounce evangelical commitment. Intimes of hyperconnectivity and systemic crises, silence emerges as an epistemological tool for transcending missionary challenges, offering hermeneutical keys for living discipleship with evangelical coherence. This proposal invites interdisciplinary dialogue on the theology of contemplative action, challenging current pastoral paradigms and opening horizons for evangelization that integrates spiritual authenticity and transformative commitment.