Pope Francis has brought some bombs in the community

You may imagine that the word ‘Papa Francesco’ was resonating in our Ark community for quite some time after the unexpected visit by the pope last week. Here you can read more about this visit. As said before, the Pope has come completely unannounced to visit us, even the official media were not informed in advance. I heard that some … Read more

Do Small Things With Great Love

In the previous two contributions I wrote about the beginnings of Ark (here) and about the importance of celebrations (here), which are a vital part of community life. This time, I will briefly describe what are our responsibilities and what do the volunteers and assistants do at the Ark. Jean Vanier, founder of  the Ark, once wrote: … Read more

No Community Without Celebrations

We arrived to the Ark at the day of the celebration. Not because of our arrival, but because of Daniele’s birthday. A place to celebrate Much is celebrated at the Ark. In fact, the celebration has traditionally been one of the most important elements of each Ark community. Here is what the Ark’s founder Jean Vanier … Read more

Born Out of Pain

Jean Vanier, an eminent doctor of philosophy and professor at the University of Toronto, was shocked almost 53 years ago, when he visited the facility where people with mental disabilities were accommodated in Saint-Jean-les-Deux-Jumeaux, southern part of Paris. Starved of love The conditions in which these people lived, were far from the dignity that belongs to every … Read more

In and out of the jungle

Piazza Venezia - Rim

We’re in Rome. After Assisi, Perugia and Terni, all cities in Umbria province, we are now located in the province of Lazio, where everything is completely different. No, of course not. There is no significant difference, perhaps Lazio is slightly less hilly than Umbria. Rome is our ‘strategic’ point. Here, one can find all headquarters of relevant organizations and religious congregations, which could … Read more

The journey started in the City of Peace

Assisi

After long three months of preparation, our journey has begun. However, just before the departure, we decided to renew our wedding vows. This was our way to show commitment to one another and to God. Kranj city parish priest prepared a beautiful ceremony – thanks again father Vinko! Assisi or Medjugorje? We have been thinking a … Read more