Jean Vanier, founder of the International Federation of L'Arche Communities, appears in the documentary "Summer in the Forest." The Catholic News Service classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. (CNS/Abramorama)

By Catholic News Service

This gentle documentary, directed by Randall Wright, provides a loving portrait of Canadian Jean Vanier and of L’Arche (the Ark), the network of communities he founded for the developmentally disabled and those who care for them. Through the stories of five residents, the film shows what a blessing L’Arche, with its commitment to the dignity of every human person, has been in the lives of many.

Though moving and inspirational, the film is not without its shortcomings. Most significantly Wright all but ignores Vanier’s status as an internationally known Catholic philosopher and prolific spiritual author whose work with L’Arche springs directly from his deep faith.

One crude term. The Catholic News Service classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America.

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