Improving Vocational Accompaniment as a Means of Enhancing the Effectiveness of Initial Formation of Marist Brothers at Marist International Centre in Nairobi, Kenya

The objective of this study was to investigate ways to improve vocational accompaniment as a means to enhance the effectiveness of the initial formation of Marist Brothers at MIC in Nairobi, Kenya. The study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, targeting a population of 84 participants, comprising of 78 religious Brothers in initial formation and 6 Formators. Questionnaires were used to gather quantitative data from the 78 religious Brothers in initial formation, and semi-structured interviews to obtain qualitative data from 6 Formators. The research was grounded in Social Learning Theory, which emphasizes learning in a social context through modelling, imitation, and observation. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis, while quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistical methods. The study's findings, with an average mean score of 4.05, revealed that vocational accompaniment can be improved through the practice of non-judgmental listening, patience and diplomacy, effective communication, ongoing formation of vocational accompaniers, the sacrament of reconciliation, a regular feedback mechanism, workshops on religious life, a convenient time, and a suitable method of accompaniment. The study recommends that the initial formation of accompaniers and their ongoing formation should be considered a priority. Key Words: Vocational Accompaniment, Initial Formation, Enhances Effectiveness, Discernment, Guidance