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History of L’Arche
L’Arche (“The Ark”) Erie is part of an international federation of more than 130 communities in over 30 different countries. L’Arche began in France in 1964 when Jean Vanier welcomed Philippe and Raphael, two men with mental handicaps from an institution, to come and live with him. Today L’Arche remains faithful to the simplicity of this vision as assistants and people with handicaps share their lives together, their gifts and struggles, as brothers and sisters in Jesus.
Today, L’Arche Erie has eight homes and two apartment settings where its many members live, work, and share in daily life. These homes relate often to each other, through visits and celebrations. The philosophy of L’Arche is to provide “family” based growth and security to people through mutual relationships. Some people choose to move toward independence and they, along with board members, former assistants, family and friends, broaden the circle of relationships.
The community of L’Arche Erie is growing in its ecumenical vision through welcoming those of different faiths. Our spirituality is founded on gospel values and the love of God for the weakest and the poorest, so as to reveal their vocation of opening hearts of compassion to others. We are a community of faith rooted in prayer and trust in God. Opportunities for prayer and worship are part of daily life in the home and when we come together to share and celebrate as a community.
As the community moves into the future it carries its history, relationships, and traditions with it. These roots of the community and long-term commitments of members give it the stability to go forward into new challenges.
