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Staff and students at Father Henri Nouwen Catholic Elementary School in Richmond Hill, recently honoured the school’s namesake, on what would have been his 80th birthday.
The school community celebrated Father Henri Nouwen’s legacy by holding a number of events and activities focused on the theme of inclusion and equity -- Catholic virtues which exemplified Father Henri Nouwen, in both his character and spirit.
Best known, perhaps, for his work with people with developmental disabilities, Father Henri Nouwen was born in the Netherlands on January 24, 1932 and died on September 21, 1996. He authored over 40 books on spirituality, including The Wounded Healer, In the Name of Jesus, and Adam: God's Beloved, which he wrote while working as the pastor for the L’Arche community, Daybreak in Richmond Hill.
L'Arche is an international organization of faith-based communities that creates homes and day programs with people who have developmental disabilities, L’Arche Daybreak is the oldest L’Arche community in North America.
Guests from L'Arche Daybreak also joined in the school’s celebrations by giving an interactive and engaging presentation called, Henri’s Story, at the school’s virtue assembly.
Embracing the school motto, FHN We all Belong, student ‘disciples of the month’ were also recognized at the assembly, as were the co-op students from St. Theresa of Lisieux Catholic High School who have made valuable contributions to the school community during their placement at Father Henri Nouwen CES.
At the end of the day, the school welcomed Taylor Lindsay-Noel, who was a national gymnast and 2012 Olympic hopeful. She shared her tragic story of how her life changed in the span of minutes from amazing athlete to paraplegic. In 2008, Taylor broke her neck attempting a difficult dismount from the uneven bars during a practice session. Despite her shattered dreams, her positive attitude and perseverance in the face of adversity was an inspiration for all in attendance. Her story reminded staff and students, not to judge others by their outward appearance, as everyone has a story, and we all belong.