I think it might be fitting that a first post to this blog would be some words from other people who currently live in L'arche communities.
I was just at the US Central Regional Gathering in Memphis, where L'arche community members came together from Chicago; Clinton, Iowa; Jacksonville, FL; Mobile, AL; Overland Park, Kansas; St. Louis; and Atlanta. The theme for the event was "Falling in Love with L'arche." (From Elvis's "Can't help falling in love," since we were in Memphis.) There was a time for folks to share with the group why they fell in love with L'arche / what they love about L'arche.
It was truly moving, and I took a few notes from what people shared:
true humanness and vulnerability, no masking of feelings
faith
new family members, a house full of sisters
*it's difficult and easy, happy and sad - to love, to live L'arche everyday, through tough and joyful times
the people, particular core members
belonging
acceptance
welcome
patience of core members
support - in death, in sickness, on bad days
love
cooperation
freedom, having my own room
God, the one above
community, daily pleasure to live in community
Jean Vanier's spirit
challenge to step out of comfort zone
it's all over the world
