We journey together side by side, with neither companion ahead or behind, above or below, the other. When we are side by side we can listen and hear one another. The mutuality of walking side by side means equal sharing of decision-making and resources. It insists that the old assumptions be challenged and that we listen to companions interpret their vision of mission and reality. It means talking together, listening, and consulting with one another about how we will walk together in God's mission.
Accompaniment emphasizes relationship before resources.
Development of programs and allocation of resources flows from how companions relate, rather than visa versa. Accompaniment binds companions more closely to their Lord and further informs their mission. Accompaniment emphasizes relationship before resources. A primary reality of accompaniment is that the conversation is no longer between a giver and a receiver but between two equal churches each of which has gifts to give and to receive. Equality also applies to territory.