Elevation Misplaced
Jerry Archibald, Edmonton
Volume 38 Issue 1, 2, & 3 | Posted: April 3, 2023
When I first heard about Jean Vanier’s accusations from women who claimed sexual abuse, I couldn’t believe what I was hearing and reading. Surely this was all wrong. Jean Vanier was a living saint!
I read most of his books, listened intensely to his interviews on media, and was on a school board in Sherwood Park that recommended we name one of our schools after him. In fact, Jean Vanier came to the dedication of that school in the 1970s and I truly thought I was on hallowed ground.
So when these claims came after his death, I was literally dazed and confused. Very early on during the initial reaction to these claims, I had access to the first investigative report commissioned by L’Arch (a wonderful international work Jean Vanier established for disabled adults) regarding the initial scandal. I found the report both credible and devastating. It was centred on the experiences of several adult staff members who went to Jean Vanier for counselling.
There was enough in this initial report that told me something terrible likely occurred and more in-depth investigation was indeed necessary. Some other very informed people I know viewed this initial report was scepticism – which was understandable
So now the subsequent comprehensive report has been released and reports that at least 25 adult women were abused. Much is being written about this report.
I’m sure some followers of Jean Vanier will be re-traumatized. But I wasn’t. I was let down somewhat but not really surprised.
Why! Well after my initial crash in 2020, I did a lot of reflection on the entire situation and came to the conclusion that I put Jean Vanier on a pedestal of the highest order. And I realized through this discernment that my elevation of Jean Vanier was misplaced.
He was a mortal human being capable as we all are of doing tremendous good but capable as well of failures and wrong doing. I am very careful not to ever create that adulation behaviour ever again. Anyway I am still sad but not devastated.
Some friends of mine reached out and wanted my take on things. So I decided not to share my feelings with friends once this more comprehensive report came out.
Jerry Archibald,
Edmonton
Jerry Archibald, Edmonton