106 The Art of Accompaniment
The intentional discernment of terms based on a culture’s, region’s, or
institution’s heritage or traditions allows the apostolate of accompaniment
to truly belong to the people that it serves. Using words and terms that are
already respected to describe accompaniment within a particular context
not only allows for its easier implementation, but also affirms the beauty and
value of the traditions, heritage, and memory of a particular community.
Discernment of these terms must involve a reflection upon the experience,
history, values, challenges, and hopes of the community, both in the realms
of the Christian faith and of everyday life.
When implementing the apostolate of accompaniment, leaders may
consider reflecting on the following questions to discern the terms most
fitting for their community:
1. What is the need that the apostolate of accompaniment will
serve in our community?
2. Are there particular parts of the Christian faith that resonate
especially with our culture/community?
3. Are there particular instances of guidance, formation, educa-
tion, or learning that are present in our culture/community that
might provide helpful inspiration for language or terms we’d
like to use when talking about accompaniment?
4. What words or actions come to mind when reflecting upon our
culture/community?
5. What words might honor a memory, practice, or event in the
life of our community and translate well to use when speaking
about accompaniment?
6. What words might lead those in our community to a deeper
relationship with Christ in our culture/community?