Community Quote by Jean Vanier
““Community as openness . . . Communities are truly communities when they open to others, when they remain vulnerable and humble; when the members are growing in love, in compassion and in humility. Communities cease to be such when members close in upon themselves with the certitude that they alone have wisdom and truth and expect everyone to be like them and learn from them. The fundamental attitudes of true community, where there is true belonging, are openness, welcome, and listening to God, to the universe, to each other and to other communities. Community life is inspired by the universal and is open to the universal. It is based on forgiveness and openness to those who are different, to the poor and the weak. Sects put up walls and barriers out of fear, out of a need to prove themselves and to create a false security. Community is the breaking down of barriers to welcome difference.””
About This Quote
True community thrives on openness, humility, and listening, rejecting exclusivity and fear‑based barriers.
In simple terms: Open hearts create real belonging.
Key Takeaway
Embrace vulnerability and welcome diversity.
Themes
community
openness
humility
forgiveness
Mood
inspirational
hopeful
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- faith groups
- online forums
- workplace teams
- neighborhoods
Key Concepts
inclusive leadership
spiritual growth
Questions to Reflect On
- What practices nurture genuine openness?
- How to handle conflicts without closing off?
A Different Perspective
Exclusivity can still persist despite good intentions.
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