L'Arche in North America is part of a world-wide network of communities inspired by the Beatitudes. At the heart of these communities are people with a developmental disability and those who share life with them. The four fundamental aspects of L'Arche's Identity in North America are:

1. The recognition of the unique value of persons with a developmental disability to reveal that human suffering and joy can lead to growth, healing and unity. When their give is received, individual, social and ecclesial change occurs;
   
2. Life Sharing, where persons with a developmental disability and those who assist them live, work and pray together, creating a home;
   
3. Relationships of mutuality in which people give and receive love;
   
4. Christian Community based on the Gospel and dependent upon the Spirit of God where faithful relationships, forgiveness, and celebration reveal God's personal presence and love.

• TO CREATE HOMES where faithful relationships based on forgiveness and celebration are nurtured;
• TO REVEAL THE UNIQUE VALUE AND VOCATION of each person
• TO CHANGE SOCIETY by choosing to live relationships in community as a sign of hope and love.

Approved by the North American Delegates International Federation of L'Arche Meeting Cap Rouge, Quebec May 1993

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