The Betrayal of Witness

Book excerpt: The downfall of Jean Vanier due to the history of sexual abuse that came to light in 2020 has shocked everyone familiar with his life and work as the founder and leader of L'Arche. The authors in this book raise significant questions regarding his influential legacy and its relevance for theology and disability and for L'Arche in particular. Without any attempt to whitewash or downplay the seriousness of his transgressions, the question cannot be avoided to sort out the good and the bad in Vanier. It requires soul-searching on the part of his theological heirs and those who have been influenced by him. Finally, his work with and influence upon L'Arche raises the question of sustainability and how its communities might--or might not--be shaped by his tarnished legacy.