Labyrinth
What Is A Labyrinth?
The labyrinth as a spiritual tool has been used by many cultures and religious traditions and examples of different labyrinths have been found at ancient sites throughout the world. Labyrinths are universal, which means that there is a single pathway leading in and out. Unlike a maze, a labyrinth is not designed to confuse or bewilder. There are no blind alleys, no wrong turns and you cannot get lost in it. All you have to do is put one foot in front of the other and you will safely get to the center and back out again.
During the Middle Ages labyrinths were designed in the floors of many Northern European cathedrals to be used a part of the pilgrimage path to “the new Jerusalem.” The most famous is in Chartres Cathedral, France. The inspiration for using the labyrinth as a walking meditation was introduced in this country by Dr. Lauren Artress, canon at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco when she copied the design of the Chartres 11-circuit labyrinth and introduced it at Grace Cathedral.
A WALKING MEDITATION
Solvator ambulado-- It is solved by walking
-St. Augustine
Walking the labyrinth is not something to learn or memorize, but something to experience. It is a walking meditation, a path to quiet the mind, and become more closely in tune with God. The labyrinth walk is a way to nourish the spirit and provide an opportunity to discover our sacred inner space and find insight into life's journey.
WALKING A SACRED PATH
We are not human beings on a spiritual path,
but spiritual beings on a human path.
-Lauren Artress
HOW TO WALK THE LABYRINTH
There are many ways and reasons to walk a labyrinth - for prayer, centering, problem solving, walking meditation, reflection, and inspiration. Walking the labyrinth is a personal experience and there is no right way or wrong way to walk. You may want to set an intention for yourself before beginning. One way to walk involves three stages but keep in mind that at any stage of the walk one can “receive” or “integrate” or “release”.
Begin walking slowly, following the winding path toward the center. As you walk, your body moves into a peaceful rhythm of contemplation.
RELEASING: As you enter the labyrinth, this is the time to clear the mind, focus on breathing and putting one foot in front of the other.
RECEIVING: Reaching the center, it is a time for listening and receiving any messages, answers, comfort, prayers, inspiration. Pause for a while and focus your attention. Stay as long as you choose.
INTEGRATING: Leaving the center following the same path outward, if you had a thought or an answer or inspiration ...this is the time to integrate the experience and relate it to your life. When the walk is completed, many people like to write, draw or journal their thoughts. Each walk may bring a different experience
THE LABYRINTH TEAM
The mission of the labyrinth team is to educate people about the use of labyrinths as tools for personal growth, to sponsor labyrinth related events, and to serve as an outreach to the community of spiritual seekers.
The labyrinth is a useful tool for problem solving, leadership development and team building. Walking the labyrinth with others has the potential for creating a true sense of community and cooperation.
Our portable, canvas labyrinths are available for programs, workshops, retreats, and special events in the Pittsburgh area. Our facilitators can provide classes, workshops and walks for your organization. The Labyrinth team provides this tool as a regular part of our community's spiritual experience. Trained Veriditas facilitators Barbara Myers, Mary Kay Mitchell, and the other team members invite you to participate in this project. Contact 412-561-1557 for information.
SCHEDULE
Public walks on the indoor labyrinths are held during Advent and Lent. Times will be published on the church schedule. The outdoor labyrinth located in the South Courtyard is always open, and the public is welcomed and encouraged to walk. Call the church office for directions, 412-835-6630.
DEDICATION PRAYER
Bless, O Lord, this labyrinth and all who will walk upon its winding course. Help us to trust this path as a symbol of our life with you: that no matter how far we feel from you, you are always there at the center, waiting for us and welcoming us home.
Bless our journeys. Help us to remember that you are with us in times of joy and in times of sadness. With each step we take, surround us with your light for with you we do not walk in darkness. Keep our hearts and minds fixed upon your perfect peace that is the center of our life with you.
In you, Gracious God, we find our returning and our rest. Sustain us then with the knowledge of your presence as we journey this sacred path. Lead us closer to your heart and deeper into your love. In the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, we dedicate this labyrinth to you.
Labyrinth Dedication - December 10, 2001
-Martha H. Eilertsen
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