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At Fish on Fridays, we believe in the power of friendship to transform Catholic culture. Think about Jesus gathering his group of twelve friends as a way to form faith; recall how Saint Francis and Saint Ignatius each had a band of brothers; consider the power of Christian imagination that emerged from the Inklings.
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From the start of the journey, Frodo’s friends promise to stay by his side: “You can trust us to stick to you through thick and thin—to the bitter end,” says Merry. “We are horribly afraid—but we are coming with you; or following you like hounds.” Of course, at this point, none of them know they are signing up to face ringwraiths and orcs together. Other members of the Company avow the same pledge of loyalty. As the fellowship departs from Rivendell, Elrond reminds the group that they are not bound by any oath, and that each may decide for himself to turn back if the darkness becomes suffocating. Gimli’s reply functions almost as a lord-vassal fealty ceremony in the narrative.
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“‘Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens,’ said Gimli.
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‘Maybe,’ said Elrond, ‘but let him not vow to walk in the dark, who has not seen the nightfall.’
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‘Yet sworn word may strengthen quaking heart,’ said Gimli.”
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As the story progresses, when danger increases, so does the Company’s commitment to one another. Gandalf stands on the bridge of Khazad-Dum to hold off the Balrog so the others can escape. The fleeing Aragorn turns back and shouts, “He cannot stand alone!” Boromir, too, turns ready to face the foe. Courage is multiplied with trouble. Friends stick together.
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