b'The readings for the Easter season include the Gospel passage of the journey to Emmaus (Luke 24:1349). See the following pages for an activity that enacts this story. As the disciples journey in sadness and frustration, they begin to share their story with a stranger. After a while, they share a meal with their new companion. In doing so, they recognize Christ among them. This Gospel passage offers theEach Sunday, the sung prayer ofopportunity to refl ect on the roles ofa congregation is accompaniedteachers and catechists. As the Risenby piano, organ, guitar, or other Christ did with the disciples, catechistsinstruments. The song of the assembly and teachers are called to accompanyis primary, and the instruments the young people entrusted tosupport and empower it. their care, regardless of where each child is on their faith journey. The accompaniment is not just the background, nor does it repeat the Some young people may bemelody. It provides the underpinning comfortable identifying themselvesor the context to make a piece as people of faith, while othersof music whole, while ensuring may be experiencing signifi cantthat the melody or solo musician doubts. Some may be feelingretains its integrity and identity.indifferent or facing personal challenges that make questionsAs we accompany children on their of faith seem inconsequential. faith journey, we must fi rst listen to the melody they provide, as Jesus In his 2013 address at World Youthlistened to the disciples on their Day, Pope Francis reminded usjourney to Emmaus. Then we provide that We need a Church capablethe necessary care and support of walking at peoples side, ofto allow them to fl ourish, as Jesus doing more than simply listening todid in the sharing of a meal. The them; a Church which accompaniesjourney to Emmaus reminds us of them on their journey. our role to accompany children in their faith experience, just as Christ What, then, does it mean to accompanyaccompanied his disciples.someone? Music provides a helpful metaphor. An accompaniment supports or complements a solo The excepts from Pope Francis are from Meeting with the Bishop melody or musician. of Brazil, World Youth Day, July 2013, as quoted in Lay Evangelist, LayEvangelist.com, Michael Gormley. Subscribe today!smp.org/inspire 33'