Coming as Guest

Of all the programs I have seen in schools, the most successful and transformative in my experience have been volunteer programs working in the community. Last week I had the privilege of meeting with Br Damien Price, Christian brother, who has spent decades working with young people in service contexts. He has also completed a PhD on the topic. Damien is possibly the leading practitioner in Australia in this area and he had a lot to pass on. The starting point is the notion of coming as a guest.

At the heart of any Christian enterprise in my opinion is respect for the dignity of the other person. Damien talks about the importance of going slowly and gently. The focus is on the other person and their story. Deep listening is a key element. Technology has taken over many human functions, but listening isn’t one of them. Our own inner life needs expression in language which a good listener can support.

I think writers Buber and Levinas are right when they say that when you encounter another person in a spirit of service, you encounter the sacred. Each one of us has been created in the image and likeness of God. In listening to another person with the mindset of a guest, we can encounter a trace of God. We can also put aside our own problems for a period of time as we are present.

Eamonn Pollard

Principal