On July 2 members of the L’Arche Comox Valley community came together at the I Belong Centre as Hollee Card formally passed the role of Community Leader and Executive Director to Lynda Brosko. Lynda assumes the role as Hollee retires after 39 years with L’Arche in Canada.

Hollee and Lynda received gifts from many people and groups wishing them well. One of Lynda’s very fitting gifts was a loaf of bread from the L’Arche Comox Valley Board of Directors. Lisa Taylor, who sits on the board, explained, “We welcome you into our Community of Belonging here at L’Arche Comox Valley. Please accept this bread as the universal sign of acceptance and belonging. We’re more than a board, we’re privileged to be part of this community – and those who break bread with us, and allow us to break bread with them, are committed to moving forward together, to make each other better, before God and the incredible people of this community.

Message from Hollee:

I came to L’Arche 39 years ago due to its compelling mission, and as I plan for my retirement this July I believe in our mission even more deeply. Through the years I have seen ups and downs, as you can imagine. Through everything, what sticks out in my mind the most is the people – the core members, assistants, employees, donors, board members, volunteers and more. The love and commitment I have experienced through others has nourished me and helped me to grow not only in my own commitment but as a person. I’m especially grateful to this community for how warmly I was welcomed and how we have worked together over these last four years. I’ll hold L’Arche in my prayers and will continue to do my very best to be faithful to our mission. As I leave it’s with a heart and spirit full of gratitude.

Message from Lynda:

I’ve had the joy of being a part of L’Arche community since last fall and I’ve enjoyed learning how L’Arche Comox Valley came to be and how it has grown. I’ve always been intrigued by people’s stories and this one has especially touched my heart. The vision, commitment and courage that has been expressed over the years is inspiring and exciting. I’d like to celebrate and thank Hollee for all of her years of service with L’Arche and the important work she’s done. Hollee and the other leaders before me have laid a strong foundation for our next chapters; I’m excited to see what unfolds in the years ahead. I look forward to working with everyone in L’Arche, the Comox Valley community, support organizations and government to carry out our mission and celebrate the unique value in each and every one of us. My door is open to those who would like to talk and I look forward to getting to know those I haven’t met yet. Come share your story with me!