L’Arche is an international federation of communities where people with and without an intellectual disability share life and build community together. L’Arche, a French word for ‘the Ark’, seeks to create homes rooted in the Christian gospel but open to all, where people live a simple life of work, care, prayer and celebration.

L’Arche was founded by Jean Vanier 60 years ago (August 1964), in the small northern French village of Trosly-Breuil.  He welcomed two men with intellectual disabilities who were living nearby in a large institution. From these humble and simple beginnings, L’Arche has grown into more than 150 communities present in 37 countries.

In a world too often divided and broken, L’Arche communities seek to be a sign of reconciliation and welcome, hope and peace, openness and support. L’Arche communities recognise and respect the fundamental dignity of every human person, loved and cherished by God. 

The first reading from the Acts of the Apostles gives us a picture of how the first Christians lived in community. Firstly, the community was faithful to prayer and worship. The celebration of the Eucharist was at the heart of their life, uniting them in worship and service. Secondly, the community was a place of love, care and nurture. In an atmosphere of welcome and inclusion, people were able to grow, and respond to God’s presence and action in their lives. 

Thirdly, the community had a deep sense of sharing, especially with those who had little. There was no amassing of resources or property for exclusive personal use. The community lived simply and without extravagance.

A parish is a good example of a Christian community. Drawn together around the table of the Lord, people of every nation, culture and language gather to support and sustain each other in faith, hope and love. As one people we worship, pray, give thanks and partake in the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Nurtured and nourished, we are sent to bring Christ to the world and to live a life of service.

Within the life of a parish, other, smaller communities (groups) of witness, sharing and togetherness also exist. For example: liturgy and music, social justice, bereavement and hospitality, St Vincent de Paul Society, parish council and many others. 

We’re not created to be alone. We created to “be with” other people in a spirit of love and support, valuing the unique gifts of each person, striving together to deepen and strengthen our relationship with God and with the world. Thomas was absent from his community when Jesus came and stood among the disciples. He struggled with his doubt alone. Only when he rejoined his community and encountered the Risen Christ, was he able to make his profession of faith – “My Lord and my God!”

Today, let’s celebrate our faith community as an essential part of our Christian life.

    David J Hore CSsR

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