Ecclesiological Reflections on Belonging in L’Arche Communities: What the Church Can Learn from L’Arche
Publication information:
Abstract
The study of ecclesiology, or theology of the church, offers constructive insight into the gifts and challenges of belonging within L’Arche communities. L’Arche likewise offers valuable resources for addressing the gifts and challenges of belonging within the church. This paper examines how ecclesiological reflection on the interplay of charism and institution, especially concerning ecclesial movements with abusive founders, may be illuminative in the case of Jean Vanier. In turn, L’Arche’s charter and mandate discernment processes for advancing its vision of a more human society offer fruitful avenues for developing the church’s synodal processes in service of its mission.
Presenter Biography
Grace Mariette Agolia, PhD and STL in Systematic Theology, Boston College, does research in ecclesiology. She has been connected with L’Arche communities over the years, serving as a summer volunteer at L’Arche DC, an assistant at L’Arche Daybreak, and a member of the Board of Directors for L’Arche Boston North.