Blog

Commentary on what we’re discovering within L’Arche, with partners, and in Canadian culture

L’Arche is called to engage in our diverse cultures, working together toward a more human society. Through this blog, we hope to put a spotlight on the ways L’Arche in Canada is engaging with culture: what we are discovering, learning, and feel called to support or speak out against. We will put a light on our connections and collaborations with like–minded organizations and all who are building communities of inclusion and belonging.

We hope that this blog will contribute to a positive public dialogue on creating a more just, compassionate, diverse, and creative society.


Recent articles

Memory Box: Pinewood Floorboards

What does a set of 1940s floorboards have to teach us about COVID living?

Stepping Up

When Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer stated that non-medical masks limit the transmission of COVID-19, L’Arche Saskatoon’s artsy residents also got to work. Out came the fabrics, scissors, thread and needles. Brock wanted to contribute using two of his greatest assets: his feet.

A Light Ahead

The social distancing caused by the pandemic has been trying. Thankfully, aside from those who have donated their time, money and ingenuity to help L’Arche, there are the health care workers, grocery store clerks and all those on the front line who are helping the L’Arche community get through this crisis. With their help, it won’t be long until the Gathering Place opens again and the community starts making new memories.

Second Life

Kris first met Joanna in L’Arche London, Ontario. She encouraged Kris to join L’Arche, and he did. They lived and worked side-by-side for six years until Kris moved to Nova Scotia. Still, they managed to see each other a few times a year and occasionally called one another about matters of life and faith. But this call was different.

The Gift of Dance

Dance is a profound gift; it’s an artistic expression, a mood enhancer, a workout, a surefire way to impress a date and a form of magic. A dancer can transform into a flower, a lion or their favourite pop star. Above all, dance is an act of joy. (We dare you to wiggle around for a minute and not feel happier than you were before.) The gift of dance, and all it provides, has found its way into L’Arche.

Life’s Tough Obstacles

It was late June. A park in Edmonton had been reserved. Food was stacked on picnic tables. Local students of all ages were dressed in taekwondo uniforms, preparing for their annual Break-a-thon. The Break-a-thon is an innovative fundraiser where martial arts students showcase their skills by breaking boards. For each broken board, donations are pledged and raised for L’Arche.

Taking our place in the inclusion movement

It is an important time for the accessibility and inclusion movement in Canada and the world, and L’Arche Canada is developing our capacity to take our place.

Silent encounter with the “man who repairs women”

Denis Mukwege begs us empathetically to remain attentive, to listen deeply to what is inherent in our human condition: our sensitivity and vulnerability.

Companions on the Journey: Part Two

The road of transformation has its breakthrough moments, yet it takes many twists and turns along the way. That’s why we need to nourish ourselves and the fellowship we share.

Companions on the Journey: Part One

John and Greg talk about how their friendship took root and has grown through mutual support for over thirty years.

L’Arche Canada’s monthly e-mail review of news, stories, and commentary about what is happening in L’Arche, with our partners, and within Canadian society.

Themes


News from L'Arche in Canada

Hollee Card new community leader of L'Arche Comox Valley

We are very happy to announce that Hollee Card has accepted the role of Community Leader for L’Arche Comox Valley. She plans to begin her transition into the role by mid June, soon after moving to the valley.

L'Arche International announces findings of Independent Inquiry

Today, the leaders of L’Arche International sent a letter to the Federation of L’Arche Communities, which operates in 38 countries worldwide, publishing the results of an inquiry that had commissioned from an independent organization. The inquiry included testimony implicating its founder, Jean Vanier, and his historical link to Father Thomas Philippe, who he thought of as his spiritual father.

L’Arche Canada is please to welcome Stéfan Carrier as our new Immigration Administrator

In his own terms: "During my 25 years at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB), I had many opportunities as Business Analyst and Policy Advisor, to reference the immigration and refugee protection act, regulation and rules.

Work opportunities

Modified posting of the Project Coordinator role

L'Arche Cape Breton is seeking a Homes Coordinator