The Joy of Chaplaincy...

LISTENING...

"We are called to encounter others and to listen to their existence, to their cry for help. To listen is already an act of love!” (Pope Francis)

Furthermore, he says “We need to practice the art of listening, which is more than simply hearing. Listening, in communication, is an openness of heart which makes possible that closeness without which genuine spiritual encounter cannot occur. Listening helps us to find the right gesture and word which shows that we are more than simply bystanders. (EG #171)

ACCOMPANYING...

"The art of accompaniment teaches us to remove our sandals before the sacred ground of the other."

Joy of the Gospel, EG#169

Pope Francis goes on to explain that “…spiritual accompaniment must lead others ever closer to God, in whom we attain true freedom. To accompany them would be counterproductive if it became a sort of therapy supporting their self-absorption and ceased to be a pilgrimage with Christ to the Father.” (EG #170)