Accompaniment

One of the tools in Marist Ministry that is becoming more wide-pread and more necessary is accompaniment.  It is a "walking with", a listening, an opening of doors to possibility, a guidance, a healing.
Many of today's youth come from broken families where they have been deprived of the full benefit of the presence of both mother and father.  Often, the religious training of these young people has been neglected, yet there is a hunger and thirst for wholeness, for understanding and compassion in the hearts of these young people.  More than good will on the part of us adults is needed to help them. Some education in the "phenomenon of youth", a patient compassionate sensitivity and heart, an ability to see and help them reach their potential, the ability to listen and not force, and a deep faith can answer their longings and usher them into mature aduthood.  St. Marcellin had these qualities, and children just naturally took to him.  Even in art today, he is almost always represented surrounded by youth. Let us take some time today to look at our own relationships with our children, our students, our colleagues and friends.  We all stand in need of some kind of accompaniment.  Can we give it as well as receive it?
Bro. Rene