Jean Vanier joined the british navy at the age of 13 in 1942. He later joined the Canadian navy which he left in 1950 to study theology and philosophy. Scandalized by the horrible conditions of institutionalized mentally retarded, he welcomes two of them in his Paris home. This was the beginning of l'Arche movement which now has 152 homes where 5-6 mentally handicapped persons live with 5-6 carers. He also founded "Faith and Light" meetings which get together in 86 countries. Jean Vanier also wrote more than 30 books, many available in various translations.
He said: "What is important is not to do things for the poor and weak. It is to enter in relationship with them, be with them, help them build their confidence and discover their gifts."
Jean's father was Georges Vanier, former diplomat and Governer General of Canada.
Jean passed away on may 7, 2019. More information is available on: JeanVanier.larche.org
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