Clarity in the High Mountain Air (August 22, 2007)
I listened to this moving program while hiking in the Sierra Nevada. The words, sounds, songs, ideas and people are indelibly connected with the clear morning air, cold moving water and dramatic granite and pine landscape. In all cases, it was about clarity. Just as time in the wilderness is a clarifying lens to look at one's life, so this program allowed me to clarify my connections to the world and the rich variety of people in it. It speaks directly to the questions, What is real love? What is, to use George MacDonald's phrase, "joyful service'? What is a life of faith? It was a perfect example of learning who I was by losing myself in others. As I climbed up the twisting switchbacks to Mono Pass, from thick forest to granite moonscape, I went back and forth between tears and smiles. The other backpackers kept a safe distance, but I was deeply moved. Thank you.

Martin Johnson
San Diego, CA (Listens to SoF On Demand)

A Joyful Surprise (August 16, 2007)
Whoa, what a joyful surprise it was to stumble on your broadcast last weekend. The program about the L'Arche community in Clinton, Iowa, was a refreshing, inspiring, and humbling retreat on my quiet weekend morning. More please.

Bob Kloos
Cleveland Heights, OH (WKSU, 89.7FM)

A Missed Opportunity (August 16, 2007)
Thanks once again for another wonderful and very moving program. I especially appreciated the reading from Henri Nouwen's book about his time at Daybreak. I read it years ago, but had forgotten how profoundly moving it was.

My wife has spent the last two years working with a very low functioning Down's syndrome child from our neighborhood as her dedicated fulltime teaching assistant in the local elementary school. In short order, she totally fell in love with the child, and was repeatedly appalled to see how little her teachers and other school staff cared for her. Consequently, they missed out on one of their best lifetime opportunities for spiritual growth and the experience of existential joy. They ignored, and even dissed, her potential giftedness and simple loving happiness. They just didn't get it, couldn't appreciate it for what it was, and wouldn't accept that what was so freely and lovingly offered to them by this divine agent was worthy of respect.

We need more L'Arche chapters desperately, and I thank you for so masterfully highlighting their wonderful ministry "to the least of these among us."

Nelson Murphy
Oakland, NJ (WNYC, 93.9 FM)

Is L'Arche Expanding? (August 9, 2007)
I have worked with disabled adults for about 14 years in day program issues and programming. Currently I work with an agency called New Perceptions as a recreation specialist. I try to involve my "clients" (I hate that term) in community programs, and we also use music, art, and computers to try to find or teach activities that people can use in their daily lives to enhance their work life. When I heard your program on the "L'Arche" program, I was moved to tears. So many of our adults are without stable places to live and I think one of the local residential programs may be leaving, shutting down.

Is there any chance that the L'Arche program is expanding? We need them so much. It makes me so sad to hear about local group homes that do not allow residents to personalize their rooms because they do not want the residents to think of where they are staying as their "home." What a sad shame. Thanks for your wonderful programs. Even though I was baptized and brought up as Catholic, I no longer practice the faith. But I really like listening to your program.

Janice Bowman
Villa Hills, KY (WNYC, 93.9 FM)

The Take Away for Caregivers (August 6, 2007)
I took care of my boyfriend for going on 8 years with Early Onset Alzheimer's and this show really spoke to me as the caregiver. Nothing is simple but the way I learned to know myself, my limitations and my willingness to grow was an important part of the struggle. I did learn that I have my "disabilities" and was really no different from Alan except for the social mores. I knew his underwear went on first and then his pants. He is my heart and I am his. And that's what really matters.

Christine Sotmary
Crompond, NY (WNYC, 93.9 FM)

We Are All Flawed (August 6, 2007)
One of the big "secrets" of life is that we are all flawed. We need to allow ourselves to admit this, ask for help, and extend the same to everyone we meet (especially those in our own families). Then our families would live the love that the l'Arche communities live, and it would overflow to everywhere. Loving forgiveness, service to others, and growing up "ain't easy", but it seems to lead to joy and peace.

Martha Christofili
Tinton Falls, NJ (WNYC, 820 AM)

Heart of Humanity (August 6, 2007)
As I drove home from church today, I felt like I was missing something major. For the past few weeks I have resolved to write and study every Biblical scripture on "love." A nagging feeling has reinforced my realization that I don't understand love in its purest form. Even reading verse after verse, I so often don't get it. Hearing this episode on the drive is my first step. My heart is touched and I realize what I have been missing: my heart. A beautiful writing about "Adam" states that he is wholly human because he is wholly heart. As it was cited, I realized my lack of humanity because my coolness of heart. Without a living love, we are only partly human.

James Uhrich
Strasburg, CO (KUNC, 91.5)

The Anchor of the Family (August 6, 2007)
I could really relate to Henri Nouwen's experience. For several years I have been hired by a family that adopted a profoundly developmentally handicapped son—a 6 mo old in a 21 year old distorted body—to give him weekly massages. The work often touches me as much as I touch him, as we transcend words and he allows me to experience a kind of pure joy. My client's family is incredibly busy flying here and there and working long hours, so I really related to someone on the program who noted that the "handicapped" person's Presence assured that someone was always home. My client is clearly the anchor for his family.

Carol Springer
Willington, CT (WPKT, 90.5 FM)

A Change (August 6, 2007)
Your program about the L'Arche Community in Clinton, Iowa, really touched my heart today. I used to think handicapped people were to be avoided whenever I met them and I felt they were a burden on society and their parents. Now I feel sorry for the rest of us normal people since we are not able to express the love and friendship to another like these residents are able to. Thank you for broadcasting this program here in Colorado. Your program is a blessing to all of us.

Charles Tass
Colorado Springs, CO (KRCC, 91.5 FM)

Opening a Door (August 6, 2007)
Seven years ago I moved to rural northeast Iowa from a sleepy beach town in Southern California; needless to say, life is very different for me. However, anything that is different in this town is not always looked upon favorably and this has troubled me since we arrived.

Fayette is home to Upper Iowa University, a private liberal arts university with a very diverse student body and excellent, dedicated faculty - my husband is a tenured professor, so this is where I will most likely live the rest of my life.

I am thankful to have a group of friends among faculty families who celebrate All Things Different! A new professor and his family moved in across the street just last week. They have a 2.5 year old son and a beautiful 11-month old daughter with Downs Syndrome. The mom and son joined me and my son for breakfast at our home, and Laura played peacefully on a blanket before falling asleep. We had a nice discussion about finding a church that will accept her daughter, and I thought about how unaccepting this town can be at times and what the future might hold for the family.

When we were finished, Laura stayed in our foyer while I cleaned and listened to your program about L'Arche—how great God is to soothe my heart with sounds of happy adults who may have started out just like the precious soul who was sleeping in my home. He opened the door for me—"if I could see behind these walls"—and confirmed how important it is to always love His children. If I were not committed to my own children's lives, I would be knocking at L'Arches' door to see if they would accept me. Thank you so much for today's program.

Deena Serra
Fayette, IA (KUNI 90.9 FM)

With Stillness and a Glad Heart (August 6, 2007)
On Sunday mornings when I am home I like to sleep in and turn on Speaking of Faith while only partly awake to allow the week's program to surprise me. Today I woke to people from L'Arche. Their voices and yours this morning brought me close to Bill Clarke, a fellow Jesuit who has lived with L'Arche communities for many years. His home, at a retreat center in Guelph, is just four hours from my home in Detroit and every three or four months or so I drive there to spend an evening with Bill talking about my life. Spiritual direction for me, and a reminder of the beauty of my life. It would be hard to imagine how I could live without the wisdom and deep affection that comes to me through the grace of those travels to Guelph. Even more than most Sundays, today's Speaking of Faith has brought me into the day and the week with stillness and a glad heart.

John Staudenmaier
Detroit, MI (Listens to SoF on Demand)

Being Fully Human (August 6, 2007)
I have been working in nursing homes for the past 13 years. The program today on L'Arche reminded me of why I love working with elders, especially those on the dementia units. Having lost what society values, they are often able to be more fully human and teach us about what matters: connecting, caring, enjoying simple things. I have shared meditation and mindfulness practice with nursing home elders and their caregivers and am now writing a book about this experience. I would love to share this with SOF listeners. I also am inspired to think about the L'Arche model for elders using the more ecumenical model of mindfulness as the spiritual basis. If anyone knows of models in existence, please share.

Lucia McBee
New York, NY (WNYC, 93.9 FM)

The Gentle Nature of Humanity (August 6, 2007)
Speaking of Faith has entered my realm via podcasts within the past month and has consistently offered thoughtful programs. The one I just heard about the L'Arche community was not only heartwarmingly sincere, but eye opening to the gentle nature of humanity at its best. Thank you for the gift of that story.

Elizabeth Cooper
Birmingham, AL (Listens to SoF on Demand)

Eyes to See, Ears to Hear (December 30, 2005)
I just finished listening to the program about L'Arche. I am currently working as an assistant in one of the houses in Washington DC. I want to commend you all on the work you've done to give a true glimpse of the spirit of L'Arche. There were times during the program when I was silent and thoughtful, and times when I laughed out loud at the honest representation of community life. I studied theology (which is where I first encountered L'Arche through the work of H. Nouwen). I also served briefly as a pastor.

It's been in coming to L'Arche that I've really gotten a taste of grace and mercy and the "generosity of spirit" you talk about. Maybe "normal" people can get by with less of these qualities, but in our community it's absolutely essential. That's why I love it. I'm becoming a larger, lovelier person as I open myself to the complexity and depth of true humanness. It is my privilege to be a part of this group. It is not easy — certainly not for the faint of heart — but for those with "eyes to see and ears to hear," it presents opportunities, moment after moment, in coming into contact with the Divine. It is my daily prayer that I have these eyes and ears. Thanks again for your good work.

Amy-Marie Babcock
Washington, DC (WETA, 90.9 FM)

An Open Door for Non-Journalists? (December 29, 2005)
I can see why L'Arche in Clinton, IA would be willing to have Krista come and visit for a few days, but is there any provision for non-journalists to spend a few days to a week to see it first-hand? I loved that program. Maybe my favorite ever. It came through so beautifully what kind of people live there and what they are all about. Thank you for starting my Christmas Day in such a positive and wonderful way.

Mary Eckart
Lansing, MI (WUOM, 91.7 FM)

Bringing Other Shows Into Focus (December 27, 2005)
L'Arche is a refreshing down-to-earth (vs. abstract) presentation that affected me deeply and the type of program that I would like to hear more of. All of the SOF programs have been interesting and nourishing since I started listening now over one year but a more frequent dose of practical applications such as L'Arche helps bring other shows into perspective.

Roger Ethier
Shepherdstown, WV (WNPR, 89.1 FM)

A Lack of Critical Analysis (December 27, 2005)
While I am a person of faith and spirit, I listen to public radio for analysis more than inspiration. I was therefore disappointed in the report on the L'Arche communities. The lack of critical analysis, especially regarding questions about funding and about what doesn't work well was disappointing. I myself work with people who have cognitive problems, and I thought that your one-hour piece was unnecessarily superficial, and — in that regard — disrespectful.

Donald Kollisch
Hanover, NH (WVPT, 107.9 FM)

Rekindling a Former Experience (December 26, 2005)
I wanted to share my thoughts and gratitude for a great program which aired tonight on VPR here in northern Vermont. I recently returned from living in Northern Ireland for ten years where I was a member of a Hare Krishna community. The experience of innocence and joy which you translated as a presence within the L'Arche environment is rare indeed for community. Undoubtedly there are weaknesses within community, as often ego blankets any attempt at purity restricting its simple presence. The unspoiled purity of the joy a child can express, or a "gifted" individual who lives in the L'Arche confines, is a ray through our daily bumblings in foolish material pursuits. How precious to have their reminder for those involved there who as expressed in your program might see their own shortcomings in the presence of them. But instead of feeling dejected or weak might be lifted up by the positive nature of these "gifted" people who don't become entangled in the rant of the day or the short lived pleasures we often become so obsessed with, but never really give us any pleasure at all.

There is an ancient Vedic tale from the Srimad Bhagavatam which tells of the many lives of one great soul. In one life he takes birth as a fool, or retarded individual. He does this to keep himself protected from the crazy workings of the materially driven people of this world, as they are not interested in him nor bothered by his presence. At one point he reveals his true wisdom and nature to a pompous king who berates him whereby he astounds the listener (the king) with a depth of simple clarity that brings the king to prostrate before the simple man.

I once had an experience with a "gifted" girl who is my distant cousin. I was her partner in an annual family reunion game of croquet. I had the most joyful time teaching her how to play the game, and sharing moments of simple joy when she succeeded. I was instantly in love with her simplicity and nature and set out to find more experiences with similar people near my home in N. Ireland, but alas it did not come in to being. Life overtook me, but this program has rekindled that experience. Although, now with children and the struggles of daily life I do not see myself finding the opportunity to engage in working in that way any time too soon. Thank you very much for sharing this experience, which I felt was for you was an experience more deep than most of your interviews. It felt to me as though you entered into it quite deeply, and that you were sincerely affected by it — this affected me.

Randy Repass Jr.
Johnson, VT (WVPR, 89.5 FM)

What of the Others Among Us, I Ask... (December 26, 2005)
If L'Arche is "diverse" and "non-denominational," as your show asserts, then you omitted even in passing, any Jewish interest in, or presence within, this extraordinary community. At a time when this country is rapidly divesting itself of its social safety nets, you were correct: these people are among the most vulnerable among us.

However, after listening to your broadcast, had I been an aging, Christian parent seeking a sanctuary for my mentally disabled adult child, I would have then had solace — that there is a place where he or she could be cared for, but also, where the comforting prayers of the family could be heard and said. Six or so years ago, a family at our temple exemplified this. Every Friday night the family of two parents and two high school-aged, college-bound daughters would bring the three mentally disabled young adults they took in to live with them, to Shabbat services. It could be said, that they rescued them. Their only other option was a state institution. Both the father and mother were licensed, trained counselors employed by the state. But also, they were imbued with the high energy and sense of humor it takes anyone to raise a family. Timmy especially, loved to recite the blessings for the wine and bread in the social hall following services, sometimes accompanying the Rabbi who then always thanked him; and this broke the ice for everyone. Soon my own exhausting work week if only for a single day then left me. Seeing the Rabbi with this deeply committed family, allowed me serenity: truly Shabbat.

The following year and shortly before they were to move away, the family had a small gathering in their home during Hanukkah — complete with the songs, dreidel-spinning, storytelling, and latkes — and there, in the dining room bay window, glowed the candlelight of three large, extraordinarily beautiful Hannukia (menorahs) whose flames, visible for blocks, from a distance seemed as stars in the heavens.

So yesterday morning, busily preparing for Hanukkah and listening to your show, I thought, "If that family ever needed L'Arche and Timmy were to live there, could he also hear and say his own prayers and share them with others?" Except, I still do not know — certainly not on the basis of your broadcast; for however unintended, within your discussion of diverse religious backgrounds of the core participants, the faith of these kind people, and of others who might be helped by L'Arche, was not so much as given a cursory glance. So I am sorry, but as I am writing this still I cannot help but be profoundly disappointed.

Deborah Snyder
Stafford, VA (WETA, 90.9 FM)

To Stand Before the Pain (December 25, 2005)
What a wonderful way to wake up this Christmas morning! Thank you Krista and all those involved in producing the L'Arche show. I realize that it was actually taped a year or so ago, but perhaps that is one of your points. It is a show, or rather a message, that needs to be listened to again and again and again. L'Arche is a chapter, indeed a "core member," of God's love for humanity revealed through and beyond daily handicaps as well as profound suffering. Krista, I recall meeting and speaking with you in Minnesota five years ago when I learned via the St. John's Ecumenical Institute of your hope and dreams about producing such a show. This L'Arche show, as well as the other ones that you and your colleagues produce, reveal to me that God continues to dream for us when we have the courage and compassion to listen to our dreams. Thank you for believing in and working to fulfill or should I say reveal your dreams. As your L'Arche [program] especially reveals such a process connects us all with our common humanity — if, as Jean Vanier so profoundly states, we are willing "to stand before the pain."

Kevin Gillespie
Baltimore, MD (WYPR, 88.1 FM)

Helping Better Understand My Son and Myself (December 25, 2005)
I caught the tail end of the program on Christmas morning. I am so grateful for what I heard this morning. It actually makes up for the pain and rejection I have received ever since my son became ill with schizophrenia. My losses have been significant. This program gave me hope for a better life for my son and for understanding for me. Thank you for being there and seeing something that most people fail to see. I am also thankful that you were able to articulate what I feel so deeply in my heart. I wasn't able to verbalize it. You put it into words that helped me to understand something I knew on one level but didn't really understand and would never have been able to explain.

Judith Lundgren
Fairport, NY (WNYC, 93.9 FM)

From a Social Work Student (December 24, 2005)
Thank you so much for this uplifting program on L'Arche. As a first-year master's student in social work, I was particularly struck by the empathetic, strengths-based perspective of the community, which is so in keeping with our profession's mission and core values of service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. In today's polarized "me-first" society, it is refreshing to learn of others who are selflessly working to empower and encourage those of us who are physically and/or psychologically challenged to achieve fulfilled, happy lives. I was greatly moved by today's program and will keep it in mind as I continue my studies and beyond. Many thanks and best holiday wishes.

Marcie S. Gitlin
New York, NY (WNYC, 93.9 FM)

It's Why I Support Public Radio (December 23, 2005)
Thank you for your excellent presentation of the L'Arche community and your mention of Henry Nouwen. It is programs like yours that keep me supporting public radio. Blessings and peace.

Vernon Lasala
Ada, OH (Listens to SOF OnDemand Audio)

Life Is To Be Enjoyed (December 23, 2005)
Two of my three children have Asperger's Syndrome, a form of autism. I don't believe that either of them will live in a home like L'Arche as I believe that they will be able to live on their own in adulthood — and one of my kids at age 22 is doing just that. What captured my imagination was the way that the core members grasped life as something to be enjoyed and celebrated rather than endured. My kids have their own struggles, but I'm grateful for their perspective, their insights that sometimes emerge from their disabilities.

Ann Rouse
Monroe, IA (WOI, 620 AM)

Identifying People by Their Abilities (December 22, 2005)
I believe you [Krista] are a person of great compassion and sensitivity toward all people. For too long people with disabilities have been defined by their disability rather than by who they are as people. The disability is only a part of the person, not the whole person. When I read in your journal the review about the book by Martha Beck, Expecting Adam: A True Story of Birth, Rebirth and Everyday Magic, you referenced Adam as the Down syndrome child. Adam is a child first who happens to have Down syndrome. I can only imagine he must be or have been an incredible child if he transformed his parents' lives. He could have been described as an extraordinary child with Down syndrome. Other examples of referring to the person first would be: the person uses a wheelchair, but is not confined to a wheelchair; the person with a brain injury rather than a brain-injured person. Do you see the difference? Our goal should be to appreciate and describe people for who they are rather than by their different ability. I look forward to hearing your show each week. It certainly presents information in a totally different light. Thank you.

Kateri Osburn
Silver Spring, MD (WETA, 90.9 FM)

God's Peaceable Kingdom (December 22, 2005)
I work as a chaplain at an institution for developmentally disabled adults, and while reading Krista's journal on the L'Arche community in Clinton Iowa, I was struck by her statement that people with disabilities can teach others of what it means to be human. All of us in the Chaplaincy Department refer to our community as God's peaceable Kingdom. I agree. Truly when I am serving this community I feel as if I am spending time with family at its best. Thank you for lifting up these individuals, and all that they have to offer us.

Tom Walsh
Watertown, CT (WNPR, 88.1 FM)

A Community for my Brother and Others (December 28, 2004)
Last Sunday was an eye opener for me. I was glued and mystified by the L'Arche community interviews you carried out. They were both unbelievable as well as encouraging. Encouraging because I finally found hope for the people who have been labeled handicapped, mostly in the developing countries, and whom society has ignored. My eldest brother is one of these people.

He was born very smart, but he is not able to speak clearly; honestly I do not know his condition because he is not deaf, only that he has a heavy tongue which makes it hard for him to speak. Anyway, growing up he attended a school that was for the "physically and mentally handicapped." He had to go to school and I am sure my parents could not find an appropriate one for him because obviously he is not "mentally handicapped." As years went by, the school kicked him out saying he was now of age and should not attend anymore. This was devastating for him as well as the whole family. Having limited resources meant that any options for further studies were limited especially for him. So he stayed home and that was the end of it all.

My brother is deeply religious; he attends church with a passion, come sunshine or rain. After I moved away from home I heard from my family that they had found him a wife (this was a blow to me) according to the traditions, since he is a first-born. Now he has two sons on top of the two that came with their mom. After listening to your program I asked myself what can I do to help others like my brother? What can I do to help my brother? The answer was clear to me: start a L'Arche community. Now I need more information and any kind of help to start such a community in my home town. Thank you for bringing this to us.

Phoebe Omolo
Okemos, MI (WUOM, 91.7 FM)

A Community Like L'Arche (December 26, 2004)
I listened to your segment on L'Arche with great interest and appreciation. My son Jeff, 33 years old, resides in a Mennonite community for the mentally handicapped near Charlottesville, Virginia. The setting at Faith Mission Home is very similar to your description of L'Arche — that of a community where the exceptional is normal.

I am appreciative that you captured the joy of simple living that can be experienced by those not encumbered by the baggage of "normal" modern life. There is much joy at Faith Mission Home and I heard the voices of my son's friends in your interviews. Over the 22 years that he has been at the "home," we have come to know many of the residents, and continually marvel at the uniqueness of each individual.

The Mennonite Community has provided us with a gift by creating an environment where these special people can flourish. There have been many times when I have thought that maybe I am the one who is handicapped (along with my surrounding world), when I watch the simple joys of life unfold on a daily basis at Faith Mission Home. The story of Faith Mission Home and the surrounding Mennonite community is an inspiring example of faith put to action. Thank you for highlighting this positive aspect of the world in which my son lives.

Bob Lacovara
Teldord, PA (WHYY, 91.0 FM)

Balance and Sympathy (December 29, 2004)
I caught the tail end of your program about The Arch this afternoon. Marvelous! I have seldom heard persons speaking of the spiritual life of those who happen to be mentally challenged with such balance, sympathy, and appreciation. I would like to send you a book my wife and I wrote in response to our ministry with persons who happen to be mentally challenged. It's called Emmau's Eyes: Worship with the Mentally Challenged and was published in 1996 by Eden Publishing.

David Trembley
Milwaukee, WI (WUWM, 89.7 FM)

The Small Things (December 26, 2004)
Your program about the charter of L'Arche was both inspiring and uplifting. It gives me peace to know that such an organization exists out there. My daughter, Samaa, was born with Down syndrome and I feel happy to have realized the gift from God that she represented and her humanity the day before I left the hospital after giving birth to her. Even though raising her now for six years has posed many challenges for me, my life has been enriched and I am a better person because of her. It also has made me appreciate the "small things" in life that so many of us take for granted. Thank you for this report.

Ana Castellanos
Miami, FL (WLRN, 91.3 FM)

The Small Things (December 28, 2004)
Your interviews with Jean Vanier as well as Jo Anne Horstmann, along with all the "core" members, were a pure delight. Of course there was an element of sadness for me as an individual as I too fall prey to the, at times, a certain amount of awkwardness within myself when dealing with another human being that has the "outward signs" of "disability." For me your story of the L'Arche homes brought up so many important challenges that I must continue to pray for guidance on a daily basis.

Thank you and your wonderful staff for providing so many interesting topics that inspire and bring hope to all who'll listen to your programs — and, in turn, to oneself.

John Michael McCarthy
Los Angeles, CA (KPCC, 89.3 FM)

Will Power and Faith (December 28, 2004)
I woke to the last few moments of your program and was spellbound. I had to hear more. The timing of the program was almost too much to bear. You see, six years ago, on Christmas day early in the morning my husband and I were taking our two-and-half year old son into the emergency room at our local children's hospital for what turned out to be his last admission to the hospital. He was dying of leukemia. Consequently, the Christmas holiday has been a challenging time of year for us.

The story that Dr. Komp told regarding a woman who had lost her first son felt somewhat familiar. Children with leukemia tend to spend a considerable amount of time in the hospital and death and dying is a very significant part of their reality. Consequently, my husband and I had a few conversations with our son. It was difficult to choose words and imagery that a two-year-old could understand. Or so I thought.

About one month before William died he shared some information with me that has forever changed my life. While sitting at the breakfast table watching Barney, Will popped up with a big smile on his face and said, "Me-Me (his word for I) go to heaven Mommy." I was shocked and that shock apparently had shown through on my face because Will's smile began to melt away as though he realized he had said something he shouldn't. When I saw this I tried to come up with a truthful yet reassuring answer. (Even though I wanted to say, "No, you are not. You are going to stay right here with me for a long, long time.) I replied, "That's right, William, someday you will go to heaven." Then he said, "Jesus be there." I agreed. Then he said, after a long pause, "Mommy and Daddy stay here."

I knew then that Will was going to be leaving us soon. I had always thought of myself as a faithful person, but it was not until years later that I realized that it was the faith of my child that I held onto as I grieved his loss. He clearly had a sense of reassurance and peace about his death that I could not have given to him, because I was so conflicted about the events of his life and impending death.

His questions about the mysteries of life and spirituality had been answered for him, not by me but by God. I agree so much with Dr. Komp. Children have the inside track on understanding the mysteries of spirituality and a higher power. What a wonderful show!

Mary Giesel
Carmel, IN (WFYI, 90.1 FM)

Your Masterpiece (December 28, 2004)
In this program you managed to so accurately present Vanier as a vision of Christ on Earth, and to (seemingly, perfectly) articulate Vanier's visionary presence regarding the L'Arche people and communities — enabling listeners to get a clear and insightful understanding, no small task, in a short time. Bravo! My late, great cousin Terry Murphy had to have been listening on his NPR station in heaven, compelling my fingers to type this, and I can assure you that WE together say GOD BLESS YOU, and THANK YOU!

Charles Markey
Jersey City, NJ (WNYC, 820 AM)

Prompting Me to Question (December 27, 2004)
Thanks for the wonderful, heart-stirring program on L'Arche this evening. I grew up with a younger sister (now 44) who has Down syndrome; so many of the themes you touched on are dear to me. Sharing life with Judy has prompted my most pressing and persistent theological questions over the years. I was moved by the authenticity of every voice represented in this broadcast.

Don Richter
Asheville, NC (WCQS, 88.1 FM)

Trying to Understand (December 26, 2004)
This is my first catch of your program. I am a Sister of Mercy, CT, and a published historian and an archivist. More importantly, I deeply believe in God and God's love. I love my faith. This was a brilliant show. I knew Henri Nouwen (from his days at Yale) and thus had followed him, from a distance of course, through his L'Arche days. Thus I was caught immediately by your production.

But the point is: I am one of those "repulsed" by the mentally retarded and in awe of those who can "handle it." I wanted to understand. Your production went a long, long, long way toward that understanding. Keep up the great work. Now that I know the website, I will listen to past programs and start catching new ones. Please keep up the great work.

Sr. Dolores Liptak
West Hartford, CT WPKT, 90.5 FM)

A Guileless Beauty (December 26, 2004)
I was powerfully moved by your show this morning. It was the first time I have heard this APM program. We have had mentally handicapped people in our family and so I marvel at them as those at L'Arche seem to do. Their guileless beauty really does defy the idea of what is normal and helps break the barrier of the other as Derrida has taught us so well. That Christ is a part of this group seems perfectly right. With gratitude for what you and all at L'Arche gave me this morning.

Charles Mchaley
Midvale, UT (KUER, 90.1 FM)

A Gift (December 26, 2004)
I am grateful to have been ill and slowed down enough this a.m. to have listened to this beautiful program. Our grandson, Zachary, has autism. He is nine years old and has taught me so much about important things, like really watching leaves fall from the trees. And wondering where the "sunny" is as night falls. When I pick him up from school on Tuesdays, his pure joy at seeing me is contagious and I am energized. I do not have his day-to-day care, and so, perhaps, it is easy for me to have stopped asking "Why?" and can say "Thank You" to God. I believe someday Zach would be blessed if he could be part of a L'Arche Community. Who wouldn't? Thank you.

Rosemary Lassiter
Wilmington, DE (WHYY, 91.0 FM)

A Multiplicity of Meanings (December 23, 2004)
Also, the word arche in classical Greek philosophy means "first principles," i.e., that notion that governs all phenomena. Perhaps in this context it means agape (also NT [New Testament] Koine Greek), caritas, karuna, compassion, love. Makes sense to me.

Steven Fortney
Stoughton, WI (Listens via Web Audio)

Clarification on Vanier (December 23, 2004)
I was looking forward to your comments on L'Arche and Jean Vanier. You speak of Vanier as French philosopher, which leaves the impression he is from France. In fact he is and was a Canadian citizen although the first community was established in France. His father was at one time the Governor General of Canada. I have had the privilege of meeting Jean Vanier on a number of occasions. The last time was a number of years ago when he visited the L'Arche community in Toronto. What expectation among the residents and what joy overflowed upon his arrival.

John Congram
Toronto, ON (Listens via Web Audio)

Similar Experience with Alzheimer's (December 28, 2003)
I've just listened to your program about L'Arche. I believe I've heard this program before, but today it took on special meaning for me. My husband is going into the last stages of Alzheimer's disease and it is becoming more and more difficult to deal with him 24/7. He is on hospice now and they have been a blessing for us both. But I am so tired; I am beginning to be unable to function from day to day.

Today your program helped me to see once again how lovable he is, how I can be Jesus to him. That this is an opportunity to live the beatitudes in my own feeble way. I've decided I will take the respite care offered to him for a few days so I can rejuvenate and keep him at home as long as possible. Thank you for all your programs, and especially for re-airing this one. It was meant for me to hear again.

Rose Henzler
Brooklyn Center, MN (KNOW, 91.1 FM)

Terrific, a Perfect Topic (December 27, 2003)
I am now teaching English as part of the medical faculty of Charles University in the Czech Republic. This is just a wonderful thing for them to learn about because this truly responds to solutions. This is a terrific topic, beautifully produced. I want to show it to my students as a good thing about America. This is authentic, honest, and really insightful. Many thanks. More please!

Mary Frances Hickey
New York, NY (WNYC, 820 AM)

A L'Arche Environment in the Home (December 28, 2003)
Wow! Thanks for the time you devoted to this wonderful organization. I have a son who is 16, has Down Syndrome and PDD. I would love to find him such a community in which to spend his adult years. I read about this years ago and my goal has always been to establish a "L'Arche environment" in our home. I often think my son, while cognitively delayed is spiritually precocious! He certainly has awakened something in me, and I think in our family. He is truly a blessing. I will continue to research this fine organization with the hopes of finding a wonderful home for my son in the future. I even wonder if a parent/child has ever come to live in a community together. Thanks again for a fantastic, informative show that really captured the essence of the organization.

Rebecca Neiger
Columbus, OH (WOSU, 820 AM)

Universal Contributions (December 29, 2003)
I was quite moved and happy to hear your piece on L'Arche. I am a Care Coordinator at REACH Haines Community Services, and I help organize both monetary and spiritual support for families of and for people with developmental disabilities. People with mental retardation are like children; honest, speaking from their heart, and in a sense "seers." Their concentration on one idea is much more thorough than people without mental retardation. Life is slower, life is better for us all if we could just slow down. Many of the people that we work with at REACH that have multiple disabilities seem to strangers to be "vegetables". They might be non-verbal, non-ambulatory, non-visual and depend on others for all needs...but I have learned many things from these people; how to laugh, love, and communicate clear emotion, communicate peace, communicate needs. They are a gift, sometimes disguised, but a gift for us all. Thank you.

Suzanne Vuillet-Smith
Haines, AK (KHNS, 102.3 FM)

L'Arche Community Program (December 29, 2003)
I have listened to your program for a long time and consider it one of the best things on radio. I also think that this past Sunday's program was the best I ever heard. A remark was made about the difficulty in a certain romantic relationship because the man in question was not at all responsive. It would seem to me that the longings of the heart for a loving relationship among adults of all ranges of mental development would be a central issue among any community such as L'Arche. It would have been informative to learn about this. Also, the topic of psychosis was briefly mentioned. What about the additional issue of the possibility of violence and of the training needed by volunteers to be able to be of help with either of these two central issues in life a L'Arche?

Ron Dale
Warren, MI (WUOM, 91.7 FM)

Reflection on L'Arche: Spiritual Perfection (December 28, 2003)
Excellent program put together by Krista and her group. She mentioned at the end the "design flaw" of the core people. Of course as Henry related in Toronto, in Adam, with his physical and mental imperfections he saw the spiritual perfection of peace, love and a fulfillment of the Beatitudes. Christlike spiritual perfection is the goal on earth, while we individually carry our crosses. For those core people and the Christlike founder of L'Arche and his disciples, the assistants, they are leading the way for all of us.

Andy Boemi
Chicago, IL (WBEZ, 91.5 FM)

Pilgrimage to L'Arche (August 2, 2002)
Wonderful program. Thank you. Terrific insights that should serve as a counter to the consumerist frantic lifestyle of too many Americans. I believe that God does not prevent such tragedies as severely handicapped children to remind us that we all need one another, and that all have gifts to give. These are the things that make for community, and for goodness. Thanks again. I could barely believe that there would be such a long program on L'Arche.

Nancy Jo Kemper
Lexington, KY (WEKU, 88.9 FM)

Excellent! (July 21, 2002)
I loved this program. Everyone of us is a community of brokenness and beauty. I would love more programs on this topic. Excellent work!

Sondra Otto
Minneapolis, MN (KNOW, 91.1 FM)

Richer for the Experience (July 19, 2002)
Since the age of six when my younger brother was born with Downs Syndrome I have lived a life that is incredibly different from my peers. John brought us to view the world with an entirely [different] sort of vision. Yes, it was trying—incredibly so for my mother. But this vision has affected my immediate family, my husband, his family, and of course now my children. Would life have been simpler without John? Yes, but so much poorer.

Thank you for personalizing the world of the mentally retarded. They are real people. They are certainly not darlings of the politicians (but then they usually don't vote!), they are not of interest to the media (such a small number), and they are probably one of the last groups that someone can publicly make derogatory comments about and people still think it's funny. But, those that know and love these special people are much richer for the experience. We more than anyone appreciate these people that choose to spend their lives working and living with them … sometimes we need a rest! Thanks for the lovely program.

Peggy McKeon
Coronado, CA

Thanks! (July 19, 2002)
I'm a recent graduate with a degree in theology, and as I looked for some way to engage in a meaningful job after a lifetime of being a student, I was drawn to working with adults with disabilities. I've never been able to fully understand why working with these women nurtures something spiritual in me — but this program really helped me to discover that connection. Thanks for the inspiring, respectful, and thoughtful program.

Andrea Pearson
Ham Lake, MN

I Loved It! (July 18, 2002)
As we are searching for ways to be truly authentic and "let down the guard" of the professional world, I found this piece inspiring. I've already checked out your online links and am purchasing Nouwen's books for more insight. As a person working with "at-risk" youth, there are so many parallels to our life's work. I'll be up early Sunday morning listening to the rebroadcast and dragging my husband out of bed with me to hear it as well. Continue the excellent work. This could soon become one of my favorite MPR programs.

Lori Zimmerman
Pine City, MN

Back into the Fold (July 18, 2002)
Thank you for presenting the program on L'Arche. I almost had forgotten L'Arche. Henri Nouwen, Jean Vanier, and Thomas Merton had moved far to the back of my mind. Your program brought them to the forefront again, where they belong. You helped me to feel my path again.

Alice Felicia
St. Paul, MN (KNOW, 91.1 FM)

A Saint of Our Times (July 18, 2002)
What an excellent program! I have known about L'Arche through the writings of Henri Nouwen for a number of years. A year ago I had the good fortune to hear Jean Vanier at Augsburg College. I was so struck by his wisdom and humility. He is truly a saint of our times and for our times. This program so accurately portrayed the L'Arche community with realism and without sentiment. It powerfully reminded the listener that, in this country that idolizes wealth and power and reason, wholeness is found in poverty, weakness, and heartfulness. Thank you for a production so well done!

Dwayne Daehler
Cambridge, MN

The Gift in Everyone (July 18, 2002)
I would like to thank you for your story about L'Arche. For me the story about L'Arche brought back many memories and reminded me of valuable life lessons. I spent two years living in L'Arche Kent (the community in Canterbury, England). I was a 22-year-old American who was convinced that I was going to solve the world's problems. I thought in terms of what I would do to help "these people" and what I would teach them.

When I look back on the experience, I know that I was taught far more from all the people I lived and worked with. In discovering my own weaknesses (which was a challenging and sometimes painful process), I learned about my gifts and the gifts of others. Instead of seeing the weaknesses or limitations, I saw the gifts of the people I lived with. And still the memories I keep closest to me usually entail the tradition of sitting down together for dinner, enjoying a cup of tea afterwards, everyone talking about their day, and cleaning up afterwards.

It has been eight years since I left the L'Arche community. I am now 31 years old and contending with the typical issues of most people my age. As life goes on and I meet new people or face new obstacles, I draw on the lessons learned in my L'Arche experience to try to find the gift in everyone and take the time to celebrate life. However, this has its challenges in our society. While L'Arche is not a Utopia (nor does it claim to be), it can help bring some meaning—and more importantly peace — to a hurried and busy life.

Jill Naylor
Minneapolis, MN (KNOW, 91.1 FM)

We're All the Same (July 18, 2002)
I enjoyed your most recent program on L'Arche. I first became aware of L'Arche several years ago. I was immediately fascinated. From 1989 to 1991 I served as a service coordinator for adults with developmental disabilities. In addition, my identical twin brother has worked for the last decade as a vocational coordinator supervising a sheltered workshop for adults with developmental disabilities. (His wife is also in the field, working as an apartment supervisor.)

Your program was very informative, and L'Arche is a great community. My only concern about programs and books and articles about L'Arche is that, while they seek to show the difficulties those with DD have, as well as their family members and caregivers, the impression can be given that people with DD are different from the rest of us. In the past, the tendency was to avoid or isolate people with DD; now there can be a tendency to put them on a pedestal. We need to realize that people with DD are just like every other human in that they have distinctive personalities, idiosyncrasies, etc.

I would encourage those who enjoyed your program on L'Arche to get involved with a local service provider for those with DD. There could well be a group home right in your area; many of those with DD just need a friend. Make a little L'Arche-come-true right in your neighborhood. Keep up the good work Speaking of Faith.

Brian Scoles
St. Paul, MN (KNOW, 91.1 FM)

What is Really Important (July 18, 2002)
I really enjoyed listening to your program on L'Arche. It was a quiet and contemplative piece. It brought me back to what is really important in our lives, and that is caring for others and living in the present. Thank you.

Lynn Ketelsen
Falcon Heights, MN (KNOW, 91.1 FM)