Reflections of Lesley Lewis - L'Arche Hobart

My connection with L’Arche Hobart began when I became the mother of a Core Member of the Beni Abbes Community.  In September 1993 our son, Chris, strode up the driveway of his new home in the Community as happy as anyone could be.   He was 27 years old at the time and had been waiting for a long time since making it clear that he was ready to live independently of his family.   

It was an amazing roller coaster of emotions for Chris’ family as he was more ready than the rest of the family at the time.  But, as always, Chris’ enthusiasm for a new adventure drove the process and he moved in to a flat he shared with another man.

At first, I felt a little overwhelmed by the number of people at the Community gatherings but I wanted to become part of it mainly because I believed that was what Chris desired.

As time went on I noticed that Chris didn’t feel a need anymore to be beside me all the time as he had been for most of his life until then. That was great.  But I still felt deep down that I wouldn’t be there if it weren’t for Chris.

Then one evening I sat with a Core Member on each side of me sharing a meal, sharing stories of what we had been doing since we last met, singing together, praying together, and just sitting with a little silence.  It was beautiful!   I feel emotional just recalling the time and the people and I believe that was the time I literally fell in love with L’Arche.

The simplicity of the lifestyle, with the spiritual foundation, the welcoming people in the homes and the way we share aspects of our lives has become very important to me

I am so glad that Chris led me to L’Arche.