Communion is the encounter between two living mysteries, each present to the other. Communication is an exchange of information. For such an exchange to take place it suffices that two entities only be in touch with each other, either in physical proximity or by some electronic or other means. Computers communicate very well with each other

The humanization of both ourselves and our society consists, among other things, in raising communication to the level of communion. This movement is not something that we can plan but something “given.” We can, however, distinguish certain activities that favour one over the other. Communion is favoured in all activities or situations where, with others, we come in contact with
beauty, whether in the arts, in sports, or related to religion. In mountain climbing for instance, the physical effort along with the interaction with others and the contemplation of the surrounding scenery can combine to lift the climbers to the level of communion.

Words are so generally directed towards the ensuring of communication that they readily work against the emergence of communion. As Jean Vanier has explained, “The more important language is the non-verbal language…. For those who have some limitations on the verbal plane,” he adds, “the body becomes the language of expression.” It is thus that the less eloquent among us are often the ones who can contribute more to the humanization of our communities.”