L'Arche Chicago- learn:


L’Arche International Identity and Mission Statement

Identity
We are people, with and without developmental disabilities, sharing life in communities of faith.
Mutual relationships and trust in God are at the heart of our life together.
We seek to build a world that recognizes the unique value of every person and our need of one another.

Mission
To make known the gifts of people with developmental disabilities revealed through mutually transforming relationships.
To engage in our diverse cultures, working together toward a more human society.
To foster community that is inspired by the core values in our founding story and responds
to the changing needs of our members.


 

The Prayer of L’Arche

O Father, we ask you to bless us
And keep us in your love.
May L’Arche be a true home,
Where the poor in spirit may find life;
A place where those who are suffering
May find comfort and peace.

Lord give us hearts that are open,
Hearts that are humble and gentle,
So we may welcome those you send,
With tenderness and compassion.

Give us hearts full of mercy,
That we may love and serve;
And where discord is found,
May we be able to heal and bring peace;
And see in the one who is suffering
The living presence of your Son.

Lord, through the hands of your little ones
We ask you to bless us;
Through the eyes of those who are rejected,
We ask you to smile on us.

Lord, grant freedom and fellowship, and unity
To all the world; and on the day of your coming
Welcome all people into your Kingdom. Amen.