Central is blessed to have acquired our own labyrinth which we are making available to the congregation as a tool for worship and prayer at the following times:
Every Wednesday
11:30am – 1:30pm
How will I know how to use it?
Every time the labyrinth is available for walking there will be a volunteer present to answer questions and provide direction. Or, continue reading below and click on the links to discover more about the labyrinth as a tool for spiritual growth.
What is a labyrinth and why would I walk one?
Solvitur ambulando
‘It is solved by walking.” - St. Augustine
Walking can be a spiritual experience. Movement can be prayer. In fact for some of us, like St. Augustine, walking is the way we do contemplation, discernment and often can best encounter the divine. The labyrinth is a spiritual tool that helps us use our walking for spiritual purposes.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare to use the labyrinth:
It is old. The labyrinth, in fact, is ancient. In many of the great Christian cathedrals of Europe labyrinths were built right into the pattern of the floor tiles. The Celtic cross and knot bear similarities to the pattern of the labyrinth. Even sacred circles of ancient civilizations resemble features of the labyrinth.
It is a tool. The labyrinth holds no special powers. It isn’t sacred alone. The labyrinth is a tool for a sacred experience in the same way that music and artwork can help us experience something sacred. Alone, it is only an object. But put to use, like a hammer to a nail, it can achieve the purpose for which it was designed.
It is not a maze. Keep in mind that the labyrinth isn’t a puzzle to be solved. It is not a maze with many choices to make. There is only one path to follow so you aren’t supposed to get lost like in a maze. The labyrinth is not intended to confuse but to clarify. The journey toward the center is clearly marked so you can move confidently into and through the labyrinth.
It is within our tradition. The labyrinth is appropriate for people of all traditions. It doesn’t have doctrine. You don’t have to believe a certain way to use the labyrinth. It allows people to bring to the experience of walking their own unique heritage and doctrinal beliefs. It is, in the best sense, an experience of unity in the midst of diversity.
It is shared. Walking the labyrinth can be a very solitary experience, but it is still important to remember that on the labyrinth you are not alone. The path is shared by others. Often times you will encounter others on this path. They will walk behind, in front, alongside, towards, or away from you. They may walk slower, faster or linger in the labyrinth. It may be appropriate to greet some with an embrace, acknowledge others with a nod or eye contact, or simply allow others to pass by. In all cases, remember that the labyrinth is a shared space of mutual respect.
It is an opportunity. Walking the labyrinth provides an opportunity to be attentive to God’s presence in new and fresh ways. For many, the labyrinth is a new tool but even for those who have experienced it before, each entry into the labyrinth can be an opportunity to encounter the divine in a new way. Allow the rhythms, movement and silence of walking the labyrinth to help your contemplation and nourish your imagination to life.
It can become a spiritual practice. Walking the labyrinth can be a one time event, but it can also become a part of a regular spiritual practice.
It has many purposes. One great feature of the labyrinth is that it provides a place for a variety of spiritual exercises. The labyrinth is a journey that can help us get to many destinations. People can use the labyrinth for many purposes. Some examples include:
Prayer. If you wish you may use the labyrinth as an experience of prayer. Instead of sitting with bowed head, you simply walk and allow the prayer to happen.
Presence. The labyrinth may be the place at which you experience the presence of the triune God. A time of “union” with Christ is possible.
Discernment. It may be that you bring a very particular concern, decision or request to the experience of the labyrinth. The labyrinth can be the place where you seek divine wisdom and guidance.
Metaphor. At times the labyrinth is useful as a metaphor for living. Reflection on your experience of the labyrinth can tell you something about your life.
It is without judgment. There really isn’t a “right” way to experience the labyrinth. While these suggestions can help guide you in your walking, they do not insure a particular experience or outcome. Like entering the biblical text when reading scripture, each time you enter the labyrinth is a new opportunity for an encounter with the living God. Let the Spirit move according to its will rather than your own. Let go of your “planned” outcome. Sometimes it will seem that nothing has happened or the experience has “gone wrong.” If that is the case, accept the outcome and explore its meaning for you. Trust that the Spirit of God has spoken even in the unexpected or confusing outcomes.
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