Go beyond barriers of ‘tyranny of normality’: Jean Vanier

 
Jean Vanier was one of the speakers at a recent gathering of leaders or representatives of Christian movements in Paris from 6th to 9th November 2013. The theme of the Together for Europe Friends meeting was "Solidarity with the Poor". The founder of the l’Arche community powerfully called on those present to have the courage to go beyond barriers in giving Christian witness, speaking of the" tyranny of normality" and the "culture of success".

Representing Ireland at the gathering, which brought together 130 people from 5 different Movements of different Christian denominations, were Irene Jovaras from Focolare, and Erin Miller from Youth With a Mission (YWAM) in Rostrevor. The two represented the “Community of communities” group in Belfast which meets regularly and involves members of groups like the Corrymeela Community, YWAM, l’Arche, Focolare and the Sword of the Spirit community.

“There was real sense of being part of a something significant which is creating a wave of solidarity between all these European Movements at the service of Europe’s future and in particular the rediscovery of its Christian soul,” said Irene.

The days also involved a visit to the Sant Egidio community for an Inter Church prayer service at the centre of Paris. The community there is actively involved in welcoming immigrants and serving the homeless. “The sharing of projects and developments brought a new wave of encouragement in this journey of working and praying together with other groups and Movements in our local areas to give a witness of the gospel being lived,” remarked Irene.

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