Appendix 113
in relationship with one another, and delving into different “topics” or kinds
of experiences.
Informal relationships of accompaniment often involve the sharing
of one main experience, situation, or immediate concern. The experiences
shared in informal relationships of accompaniment can often begin with a
request for advice or a listening ear about a pressing situation or proximate
event. For this reason, the content of an informal relationship of accom-
paniment depends mostly on the needs of the one to be accompanied. In-
formal mentors must be well prepared to receive these experiences, listen
attentively without judgment, help the one accompanied discern the voice
of God in the experiences, and set the sights of the one accompanied on
how to move forward. In informal encounters of accompaniment, mentors
must always offer their ongoing guidance and support, or help the one they
accompany identify someone well-suited to accompany them long term if
needed.
Prayer in the Relationship of Accompaniment
Prayer is one of the most important components of the relationship of
accompaniment. Prayer forms the hearts of mentors and those accompa-
nied, attunes them to the voice of the Spirit in their human experiences,
assists them in looking back with gratitude and wonder at the paths of their
lives, and helps them grow in knowledge, love, and service of Jesus Christ.
The specific uses of prayer in the relationship of accompaniment will
depend on the needs and situations of those accompanied and their men-
tors. However, prayer should be the foundation of the relationship, playing
a central role in the “meetings” between mentors and those accompanied in
the course of the accompaniment. Examples of ways that prayer can play
a central role in accompaniment include beginning and ending meetings
with prayer, praying with the experiences of those accompanied, including
the liturgy as a component of accompaniment, and reflecting prayerfully
through the scriptures.
In addition, the prayer of mentors and those accompanied can be sup-
ported by a particular spirituality or spiritual tradition. Mentors who have
been formed in a particular spiritual tradition (such as lay religious move-
ments, secular orders, or religious orders) might consider sharing the fruits