The Labyrinth ~ A Spiritual Tool

Located in the field behind United Church, a labyrinth with brick lined grassy paths was completed as an Eagle Project by Ryan Augusta of BS Troop 44 in 2005. This labyrinth, now open to the public for walking from dawn to dusk, is similar in design to that of the Chartres Cathedral in France. A smaller, 7 circuit Chartres labyrinth, painted on canvas, is also available for indoor meditation on special occasions.

The labyrinth is an ancient spiritual tool, used by many cultures and religious traditions for well over 4000 years. The geometric pattern of the labyrinth has been carved in rock, dug in earth, outlined in stone, woven into baskets, planted in hedges, and built into the designs of floors to mark the pathways. Throughout the Middle Ages, labyrinths were used as a form of spiritual pilgrimage in churches and cathedrals of Northern Italy and France.

The labyrinth, unlike a maze, has no wrong turns or dead-ends. It is designed, not to confuse or trick the walker, but to invite the taking of one step at a time, leading the walker into the center and back out again. People are drawn to the labyrinth as a tool which can guide them in healing, deepening their self knowledge, discerning the will of God. You are invited to come see and walk our labyrinth.

Guidelines for a labyrinth walk.

As you prepare to enter the labyrinth, you may wish to take a moment to center yourself, stand quietly in prayer or simply pause at the entrance, quieting your mind.

• When you feel ready, begin your walk, finding your own pace and following the path.
• There is no right or wrong way to walk the labyrinth. You may offer a prayer as you walk, listen to your breathing, repeat a scripture, hymn or mantra. You may bring a question or concern on your walk. You may enter without expectations or intention, focusing only on the path ahead.
• The labyrinth is often walked in community with others. If you meet someone on the path, you may greet them or step aside. If you wish to pause in your walk, you may stand on the space created by a turn.
• As you reach the center, enter with an open heart and mind. Receive whatever gift is there for you. You may wish to sit or stand for a while in the center.
• When you are ready to leave the center, retrace your steps, returning as you entered. This part of the walk offers an opportunity for reflection and integration of whatever insights you have gained.
• When you have completed your journey, you may wish to pause for a moment, aware of the presence of God at work within you.