ARC is an organisation that facilitates projects in which young people from across Europe come together during the summer to live together and work as volunteer welcomers and tour guides in a church.
The letters ARC demonstrate the three key aspects of the organisation:
accueil (welcome), rencontre (encounter) and communauté (community).
ARC UK is a branch of the network of ARC organisations which exist in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. We are very proud to have as our patron the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun, Bishop of Woolwich:
'ARC UK in very practical ways brings communities of young people together to celebrate the rich linguistic and cultural inheritance of Europe and to engage with those who come as visitors to our great cathedrals. I am very glad to support ARC UK as Patron.'
ARC currently facilitates over twenty projects in places such as St. Paul's Cathedral in London, the Duomo in Florence and Toledo Cathedral. We also send a number of participants each year to guide on projects run by our sister organisation CASA in France.
For two to four weeks, participants are provided with accommodation and living expenses, in return for providing free tours in their own language to visitors of famous churches. The tours are designed to draw together the historical, artistic and religious aspects of the church, thereby placing it in its spiritual context.
ARC also aims to further understanding between young people of different nationalities and Christian traditions. By living and working together, and taking time each day to reflect on their shared experiences, the volunteers gain a greater understanding and appreciation of other cultures and make valuable and lasting friendships.
ARC UK sends English-speaking guides to churches across Europe every summer and we welcome applications from anyone aged 18-30. No previous experience or specific expertise are required as full training is provided, although an interest in such fields as art, architecture, history or theology might be useful. It is advantageous, but not always essential, to have at least a basic knowledge of a European language.
ARC is an ecumenical Christian organisation. Although participants do not need to be deeply religious or regular churchgoers, we do ask that they have an active interest in the sources and expressions of religious faith as exhibited in Europe's great church buildings.
As well as welcoming visitors to a church, every project provides an opportunity to explore the city and surrounding area, meet a wide variety of people and take part in a range of activities.