LETTER FROM JEAN DANSEREAU

There are sometimes those years where we have the impression to have lived two, or even three as they have been so filled with important moments, events, meetings and emotions.

A year in which some of those who have carried with us the responsibility to accompany and guide L’Arche Canada in its growth, are coming to the end of their term… with the ambivalence from our insecurities and hopes for consolidation and renewal.

We are called to sail on the waters of a society in the midst of profound transformation… As Zoël has underlined, the face of the International Federation is profoundly changing. The impact of the transformation to which we are called, following on the heels of Mission and Identity, remains intangible and difficult to measure. We are, and must continue more than ever, to be “Pilgrims together”!

Concretely, a new mandate is on the horizon… clarification of our roles… greater transparency in our decision-making processes…renewed dialogue and coming to terms with the structures that need to evolve.

I am always deeply inspired by Jean (Vanier), recognized as “Nation Builder”: a recognition of his truth, humility, and audacity; to advance on the path of freedom, and as he invites us in his last letter “… to become more human, less governed by fear”.

To paraphrase the poet: What purpose will L’Arche serve if it loses Love? Trust with our eyes wide open; remain rooted in the earth from which we come and go forth with conviction!

At the risk of falling back on worn phrases, I still dare to affirm that we are all called by Jean, by L’Arche and by life, to be peace-makers together in spite of our diversity, to welcome difference and learn to be enriched by each other, to learn to be kind and patient in the face of our poverty, and to know to celebrate our gifts.

A year, a turning point where leadership will need to be carried differently…