During August and September, members of the Marist Association participated in Formation in Accompaniment: Journeying Together, a three-session online formation program facilitated by Br Darren Burge. The program invited participants to deepen their understanding of accompaniment as a vital dimension of Marist life and mission. Through reflection, dialogue, and shared learning, members explored how accompaniment can strengthen leadership, foster belonging, and enrich the life of local Marist communities.
Accompaniment lies at the heart of the Marist vocation, calling us to walk alongside one another in faith, attentive listening, and shared mission. The program built on the spirit experienced at the Fourth National Assembly in Brisbane, where Marists gathered in a culture of openness, spiritual conversation, and discernment. Participants reflected on how this same spirit is expressed in the Marist Association Pastoral Plan 2026-2028, which places accompaniment at the centre of efforts to deepen relationships, strengthen communities, and nurture participation across the Association.
Those who attended left with practical insights and renewed confidence to accompany others in their local contexts. The formation experience has helped sustain the momentum of spiritual conversation already emerging within Marist groups and has encouraged participants to continue building communities marked by welcome, connection, and shared responsibility for mission.
Many thanks to our Association Leader, Br Darren Burge, who facilitated each of the input sessions and members of the MLF Team who accompanied members in small group discussion and sharing.
Mark O’Farrell
Mission and Life Formation Team
Marist Schools Australia
