Presence²

99. We educate above all through being present to young people in ways that show that we care for them personally. We make time for them beyond merely professional contacts, getting to know each one individually. Personally and together as a group of adults, we seek to establish relationships with them, founded on love, which create a climate for learning in an educational setting, for passing on values, and for personal growth. ³

100. We seek to immerse ourselves in the lives of the young. ⁴ Our instinct is to engage the world of the young by going out to meet them in their own space and through their own culture. We create opportunities to become involved in their lives, and welcome them into ours. In school ministry, we seek to extend our presence through free-time, leisure, sports and cultural activities, or whatever means offer themselves.

101. Our way of being present in institutional settings seeks to be neither obsessively vigilant nor negligently laissez-faire. It is a way of helping young people through pre-emptive presence and advice, using prudent care. In a respectful way, we try to be firm and demanding with them, while remaining optimistic and focused on their personal growth. ⁵

102. Through our way of being attentive and welcoming, of listening and engaging them in dialogue, we earn the trust of young people and foster their openness. This is even more true when we accompany them over an extended period of time. While our relationships are non-possessive, they may mature into friendships that last for many years.