Pictured above: Brandon (left), Patrick (centre), and Katie (right) share a meal during their recent trip to Halifax. Their reflections on the trip follow below.
Brandon writes:
Authenticity and relationship are at the core of L’Arche, and these values inspire my ongoing involvement and commitment to the community. I am extremely fortunate to have been able to participate in many events outside of McKim House over the years — the most recent being a trip to attend L’Arche Halifax’s 15th Anniversary Gala.
Community exchanges, regional gatherings, and vacations were a regular part of life until the COVID-19 pandemic set in, forcing members to “connect” via Zoom and other platforms. Though beneficial, nothing replaces in-person interactions, and I was looking forward to seeing friends from other L’Arche communities in the region.
An unexpected highlight of the journey was the time spent in the car driving with Patrick and Katie. Patrick, whom I have known for over a decade, lives for these adventures and so our commute was riddled with inside jokes, treats, and the eagerness of what lay ahead. I always know what to expect with Patrick, as we have travelled together on many occasions.
I seldom cross paths with Katie, however, and it was a joy to spend time with her and engage in meaningful conversation over several cups of coffee.
As our community continues to grow and we extend our reach, I think about the importance of making intentional time for conversation and celebration. Though the presence of L’Arche can sometimes feel small in Saint John, where other non-profit organizations are competing for limited resources, we are part of something bigger.
Our individual commitments are part of a collective movement, and though I might not often see friends from Creative Connections, L’Arche Connects, or those who provide essential administrative support, I take joy in knowing that we are working toward the same mission.
This mission is not restricted to Saint John, but to other cities, provinces, and countries worldwide. May we continue to show the world not only the value of individuals with intellectual disabilities but the transformative power of relationship.
Pat’s Reflection:
On Thursday, May 1, Brandon, Katie and I all went to Halifax to celebrate L’Arche Halifax’s 15th Anniversary. We went to the Gala at the Armoury, stayed at an Airbnb, found a thrift store where I picked up a few DVDs and CDs, and then we headed home.
At the Armoury, we enjoyed dinner, saw old friends, met new friends, and listened to some speeches. We got lots of ideas for our 20th anniversary party that’s coming up in June — like door prizes, music, and dancing!
I met the former mayor (and current Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia) Mike Savage, listened to some music, took some pictures, drove by the L’Arche Halifax house (and by the church I went to with Jackie a while back, and by the Halifax Shopping Centre, and some hotels and restaurants), and enjoyed some nice meals and drinks. I also gave the group a card I made.
My favourite part of the trip was during the drive to and from Halifax — lots of inside jokes were shared!
Katie’s Reflection:
As an assistant who lived in L’Arche Cape Breton for a summer and then was an assistant with L’Arche Halifax for three years, it was so wonderful to reconnect with core members and assistants from my past — some who I haven’t seen in almost a decade!
A part of me was unsure if some of the folks that I had worked with would remember me after all this time, but that insecurity was immediately dispelled when I saw their smiles widen with outstretched arms and big warm hugs. It was so great to be able to catch up and reminisce with core members and share memories with new assistants.
Similarly, it was wonderful to get some quality time with Brandon and Pat, and get to hear lots of inside jokes and stories (and there’s no escape from my deep chats when you’re driving!).
Our trip reminded me that being known, remembered, valued, and celebrated for your unique contributions is such an essential part of community — and that telling stories and reconnecting with old friends is how we do that!
To quote Pat: “This trip is really warming my heart!”
Brandon Lanteigne
McKim House Assistant
Patrick McGrath
L'Arche Saint John Core Member
Katie McTiernan
Creative Connections Program Assistant