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LABYRINTH
"The simple act of walking the Labyrinth invites us back into the center of our being... No matter where we are in our own life's journey, no matter what tradition sparks the creative imagination, we may glimpse the Divine."
‑Dr. Lauren Artress Walking a Sacred Path: Rediscovering the Labyrinth as a Spiritual Tool
A labyrinth is a sacred pattern that leads you on a prescribed path to its center, and back out again. Although the labyrinth may be new to many people today, its use as a spiritual tool can be traced back to several ancient cultures. The earliest known Christian labyrinth is located on the wall of a church in Algeria, with the words "Sancta Eclesia" (holy church) inscribed in its center. As early as A.D. 350 worshipers entering the church would trace the labyrinth with their finger in order to focus their thoughts and open themselves up to the presence of God.
In the Middle Ages many cathedrals in Europe began to construct larger labyrinths. Christians who could not make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem would instead travel to these cathedrals to walk the labyrinth as a spiritual pilgrimage, symbolizing the journey to the Holy Land. The labyrinth in the floor of the nave at Chartres Cathedral in France is the most well known of the medieval designs and is the pattern used in the canvas replica at First Congregational Church.
It is composed of eleven circuits and is divided into four quadrants, clearly defined by a cross. The center of the labyrinth is a rose‑shaped area for resting, prayer or meditation. Walking the labyrinth is a way of praying with the body that invites the divine presence into an active conversation with the heart and soul. By engaging in this walking meditation, we are fully engaging our minds, bodies and spirits at the same time.
A Guide for Walking the Labyrinth
There is no right or wrong way to walk a labyrinth, since it is an activity that becomes a metaphor for your own spiritual journey in life. Some people walk with the intention to address an issue in their lives, others to pray and meditate. It is helpful to pause before you enter to center your thoughts on your intention. Some people prepare for their walks by focusing on the thought "I am a pilgrim seeking ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.“ Others think of a simple word or phrase that helps to center them, such as love, peace or healing. Still others will use the labyrinth as a prayer path to quietly listen to or talk with God. Or you may simply want to walk with an open and receptive mind.
Before you begin, please remove your shoes to protect the canvas.
Give yourself time to walk, knowing that it may take 20 to 45 minutes to enter and return. While you want to walk at your own pace, beware of trying to rush the experience. Allow your mind and body to slow down, letting go of the stress of the day.
Walk between the lines of the circuit, being aware that you are sharing the labyrinth with others. You may pass other walkers or let them step around you, whichever is easiest.
When you reach the center you have entered the most sacred space in the labyrinth. Allow yourself time to contemplate what it means for you to be there; honor this space in your life. The center is a place to pause, reflect and receive insight.
Walking the path back out of the labyrinth is a time for deep reflection and a chance to consider what it might mean for your daily living. For many, it is the most fruitful part of the walk. It can lead to action and renewal.
Once you have completed your labyrinth walk, you may want to find a quiet place in the chapel or sanctuary to sit and reflect. Our hope is that you will leave with renewed vision and a refreshed spirit.
The First Congregational Church Labyrinth is available each Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. and on special occasions.
Other Labyrinths in our area.
- First Christian Church, 16 E. Platte Ave.
- Benet Pines Retreat Center, 15780 Hwy. 83, Black Forest. Speak to Sister Josie or Sister Phyllis for directions to the Labyrinth.
- Penrose Hospital (SE corner of North Cascade and East Jackson Street) walk south on Cascade past the hospital parking area--the entrance to the Labyrinth is an unmarked opening in the brick wall. You can see the Labyrinth from the sidewalk.
- Colorado College Campus by Shove Chapel.
If you wish to receive information about the labyrinth by e-mail, please contact the Spiritual Life Committee of FCC.
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