Connections are at the heart of L’Arche

Connections are at the heart of L’Arche

Above, from left: Adrian and Jenna perform a song at Songs From the Back Deck, our annual concert in memory of Kristina Cooper. To view more photos from the event on Facebook, click here

“What we need is connections… Be connected. Be with L’Arche.”

These were some of the words Karen Cooper shared to close our third annual Songs From the Back Deck, a special concert on August 19 in memory of Karen’s daughter and former McKim House core member, Kristina.

The beauty of connection really is at the heart of L’Arche. As I reflect on Karen’s words, I am filled with gratitude for the many beautiful connections, old and new that our community has been blessed by.

At the concert, I took joy in witnessing long-time friends and past assistants reunite. At the same time, I watched as our young and brilliant summer assistants formed new meaningful bonds and memories that will impact the rest of their lives.

I am excited to see new connections forming beyond our community, too. 

At Creative Connections, our artistic day program, we recently collaborated with local artists Amy Ash and KC Wilcox of Sculpture Saint John to create a sculpture display in our window, which was showcased during THIRD SHIFT, a contemporary art festival earlier this month. (The sculpture will continue to be on display for the next week or so – be sure to pass by 95 Prince William Street, Saint John, to see it for yourself!)

In August, we were also happy to co-host a beach day meetup with Chroma NB in celebration of disability pride and rainbow pride. It was a beautiful afternoon of swimming, beach games, and new friendships. 

We especially look forward to the opportunity to connect with many of you at Building Community, our special event on September 20 at the Delta Hotel. If you don’t already have your tickets, get them here quickly before they sell out.

Whether you’ve been a friend and supporter to L’Arche Saint John for over 15 years, or we’re just getting to know each other now, your friendship is a gift to us. 

Zoël Breau
Community Leader/Executive Director

To learn more about Kristina, click here to read the eulogy written by Victoria Woods.

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