The
Labyrinth
The
labyrinth is an ancient spiritual tool, a single path of prayer and
meditation leading to a center and returning back again. Symbolizing our
spiritual journey, the inward and outward turns are, unlike a maze,
deliberate in design - there are no dead ends.
The
labyrinth is built in the Chalice pattern with a large chalice at the
entry and four smaller chalices, two opposite the entry and one on each
side.
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This circular path directs us in three ways:
·Inward for releasing (Purgation)
·Center for receiving (Illumination)
·Back out for returning (Union)
The journey quiets the mind of typical daily life
distractions, moving the soul toward wholeness and renewal in
God. Simple and yet, somehow mystical.
History
Labyrinths have a history steeped in ancient religion.
Cathedrals have long been the home of the labyrinth in the past.
Today, resurgence in the prayer and meditation path is occurring
as churches, hospitals, prisons and schools install them as
tools to improved spiritual and physical health.
Walking the Labyrinth
Join fellow pilgrims and walk the labyrinth as a gentle yet
powerful discipline of transformation.
Inward Path
The first step of a labyrinth walk is an inward one, taken
before you step onto the path. A pause before entering allows
you to prepare for the walk and leave the world behind for a
short time. Take time to be still and consider where you are at
this point in your life.
Moving into the labyrinth requires nothing more than putting one
foot in front of the other to follow the path and remaining open
to the awesomeness of the journey.
The Center
The center of the labyrinth is intended as a place of
illumination, of receiving from God whatever it is He would
offer each walker. Remain in the sacred center to listen, to
consider, to rest for the return journey. |
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Outward Path
Walkers return from center on the same path they entered. We return with
new insights and strength to pick up what we left outside the labyrinth
and perhaps, to take up a new mission in our world.
Listen for God
Reflect. Receive. Renew.
Enjoy your walk. Enjoy these moments alone with God. Find meaning for
yourself by suspending judgment and expectation. Each walk will be
unique, from person to person and from one walk to another. Each walk is
its own special gift.
Walking the Sacred Path
There is no right way to walk the labyrinth, but the following
suggestions may help you gain the most of your experience:
·Walk with an open heart and an open mind.
·Do not expect your walk to be like someone else’s.
·When you meet others on the path, simply allow them to pass. If you
wish, you may pass around others ahead of you should you find your pace
requires it.
·Remain in the center as long as you wish, then follow the path back out
in the same manner.
·Some begin and end their walk with a simple tableau: bowing, making the
sign of the cross, touching the ground. If such ritual feels right and
good for you, feel comfortable to do so.
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