Is LArche a religious organization?
L’Arche’s first belief is in the sacredness and unique value of every individual. From its earliest beginnings, L’Arche was built on respect and the valuing of difference. In Canada, communities tend to mirror the religious composition of their locale. Fairly often, L’Arche members have roots in a mainstream Christian denomination. Others are Muslims, Jews, Hindus or Buddhists; and some do not believe in God. Everyone is welcomed and respected in their freedom of conscience. In L’Arche homes the norm is to say grace before the main meal and to light a candle and join in silent or spoken prayer after dinner. This may be quite generic depending on the composition of the household. L’Arche does not proselytize but seeks to support each person in his or her own faith tradition. It has no religious affiliation.
