Accompaniment Programme 2025
Taking part in the Accompaniment Programme retreat, hosted by Conny, Maaike, and Judith from Westerhelling in the Netherlands, was a truly inspiring and enriching experience. Having already completed a series of online sessions exploring the principles of accompaniment and the structure of the programme, it was wonderful to meet in person during the pilgrimage to L’Hermitage. The group bonded quickly, united by a shared eagerness to learn and grow.
The retreat offered a strong balance of theoretical input and practical exercises. We explored key concepts such as ethics and mindfulness, especially in relation to active listening. These elements were handled with great care, creating a peaceful, respectful space where learning felt both meaningful and applicable. The skills we developed are highly transferable to working in school environments and with young people.
The facilitators were exceptional—supportive, encouraging, and deeply knowledgeable. Their guidance helped us to understand accompaniment not just as a skillset, but as a way of being present to others. Throughout the programme, the Marist values of Presence and In the Way of Mary were clearly lived and felt. I would highly recommend this course to anyone looking to deepen their communication skills and their capacity to accompany others with empathy and care.
Leigh Ellis, Director of Marist Education, District of West Central Europe
During our recent Marist trip to L'Hermitage, we took part in the Accompaniment programme, which invited us to explore active listening through the lens of Marist values—presence, simplicity and in the way of Mary. The intimate yet open atmosphere created a true sense of safe space. Centering practices like the picture meditation in the Fresco Room and partner-/group work were especially meaningful, helping us connect more deeply with ourselves and one another.
One of the activities I liked the most was the "lectio divina" which was a great experience for me as I haven't done something like that before. I also really enjoyed having Saturday's afternoon session outside in the sun enjoying the great weather and view – and the Marist spirit!
I’m very grateful to the dedicated Westerhelling team, Conny, Maaike and Judith, for their thoughtful guidance and support as we learned to accompany each other with compassion and care.
The Accompaniment programme was a very valuable and enriching experience for me—something I didn’t believe at first. I was able to learn a lot about how important simply listening can be, the power this ability holds, and how both people can come out stronger—if they’re willing to engage in meaningful conversations.
Maria Rauscher, Assistant Director of Marist Education, West Central Europe
"Being accompanied was a gift. I found the origin of my unease in a work situation. It was like slowly unpacking a treasure chest and finding what really matters to me.
I hope that with what I learned, I can give others at home that gift as well. "-
Marline van Hoek
