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L'Arche in the spotlight
September 27, 2011
L’Arche Experiences Memphis
Memphis – home of the Blues and birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll – was the site of a Central Region Gathering from June 1-4. Twenty-six members of the L’Arche Harbor House community joined more than 120 people from the seven regional L’Arche communities; this was the first time in more than 15 years that the Central Region had a gathering of this size.
Our community flew to Memphis instead of driving, which was an experience for many of the core members. We stayed in a dorm on the campus of the University of Memphis along with the other communities. This provided the opportunity to spend time with members from other communities during down time between events.
We were all kept busy by a full schedule throughout the gathering. In addition to a L’Arche dance and a talent show, we visited famous sites in Memphis. Some toured Sun Studio, where Elvis recorded his early music, some explored the National Civil Rights Museum, which is located at the hotel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, and some enjoyed the artwork and gardens of the Dixon Gallery. Of course, the entire group visited Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley.
The gathering ended with a barbeque hosted by Brad Martin, a Memphis resident, who was instrumental in bringing the regional gathering to his city. Viva was on the planning committee and thought the gathering was “good,” noting, “I liked going to Graceland because we got to see Elvis’ house.” Everyone really enjoyed the trip to Memphis! It was a time for connecting with old friends, meeting new friends and experiencing new places!
Note: Those who did not travel to Memphis enjoyed a “staycation” in Jacksonville that included an entertaining day trip to St. Augustine, the IMAX Theater at World Golf Village, and other activities.