How to get 300 people enthused about L'Arche at one go? In an inspiring example of what can be done at local level, the Poznan community simply hired a theatre in the city and put together a colourful programme of music, drama and readings from Jean Vanier’s writing, followed by a tasty Swedish smorgasbord. This imaginative event took place on 16th May.
It was originally planned as a spin-off from the publicity around Jean Vanier’s nomination for the Templeton Prize in March. Community members with and without a disability worked together throughout the production, in which the audience too were invited to participate actively. No surprise that this was an event that many potential friends wanted to support: a well known local actor and high quality choir of 20 people all contributed their talents, among others. Indeed, the day met with such success, (several people commented that it was ‘a deeply spiritual experience’) that the community plan a repeat performance next winter at a larger venue!
Jim Cargin 31/05/2011