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About the Labyrinth
The Labyrinth is an archetype, a divine imprint,
found in many religious traditions in various forms around the world and
dates back thousands of years. The seven-ring labyrinth, like St.
Luke’s, is the oldest form known in human history. Early Christians
adapted the labyrinth as a way to experience God’s presence and guidance
and to enrich their spiritual life. By the Middle Ages these ancient
patterns were inlaid in floors of cathedrals throughout Europe. The
labyrinths were also incorporated into beautiful gardens.
Throughout history Christians have gone on
pilgrimages to sacred places in an effort to experience God and receive
illumination. The labyrinth may be experienced as a spiritual
pilgrimage without having to travel a long distance to a holy site such
as Jerusalem, Rome, Iona or some other sacred place. During Advent, for
example, a pilgrim could walk the labyrinth as if going to Bethlehem to
worship the Christ Child and return to share the joy and peace.
There is no one right way to walk the labyrinth.
When you walk the labyrinth, just walk with an open heart and open mind
ready to receive whatever the Spirit has for you. Walking the path in
silence, prayer and meditation can lead to a variety of experiences such
as peace, healing, insight, courage, forgiveness, affirmation, etc.
Everyone’s experience is personal and different.
Location
St. Luke’s labyrinth is located behind
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, across the alley, and in a grass lot
(Eighth and Dewey – one block south of the Community Center). The
labyrinth is available to anyone in the community at any time and is
free. Church groups may want to call ahead to reserve a time.
If you are not sure about this spiritual exercise,
try it on at least three different occasions before drawing
conclusions. You may be surprised. Or, you may need to find a
spiritual discipline that is more suitable for you. Remember, any
approach to spirituality should be in addition to the daily devotions
and the Holy Eucharist.
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Guidelines
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Walk in silence –
especially if there are others on the path.
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Since the way in and
the way out are the same, you may meet others on the path.
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Walk at your own
pace, which may cause you to pass others or be passed on the path.
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Feel free to walk,
run, skip, dance or crawl the labyrinth.
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Scriptures, prayers,
poems and other materials may be used, especially in the center, but
sometimes these can get in the way of personal meditation.
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Some people begin
their walk with a few moments to quiet themselves, bow, make the
sign of the cross or hold out their hands with their palms up. Do
what seems right for you.
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Remember, the
experience of walking the labyrinth varies widely from person to
person. God meets us where we are to bless and guide.
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This is a sacred
space. We pray that you will find and experience what you are
seeking – what you need.
Walking the Sacred Path
One way to walk the labyrinth is to use a
three-fold process of Purgation, Illumination and Union. Begin the
journey by taking a few minutes to be quiet and prepare yourself. A
prayer hymn by Daniel Iverson sets the tone.
Spirit of the Living Good fall
fresh on me.
Melt me. Mold me. Fill me. Use me.
Spirit of the Living God fall fresh on me.
Purgation, Shedding, Emptying
(melt and mold) In this first
stage, as you walk toward the center, identify and let go of the
barriers in your life which interfere in your relationship with God.
These might include sin, anger, self-pity, stress, worries, doubts,
confusion, resentment, etc. Offer them to God as you open your heart,
mind and spirit |
Illumination, Centering (mold and fill)
This stage takes place in the center of the labyrinth. Spend as much
time as you want in the center for prayer, meditation, or reading
something you have taken with you. Face different directions or sit,
kneel or stand. Center your life again on Jesus Christ. Do whatever
works for you before starting on the journey back.
Union, Filling, Intention (fill and use)
The journey outward follows the same pathway back into the world, God’s
creation. Filled once again with God’s Spirit you can face life with a
different perspective and deeper faith. With renewed energy and
strength, you walk toward the work God is giving you to do.
Following the pilgrimage, take a few minutes to
reflect on your experience. Some people like to make notes or keep a
journal so they can remember or track their experiences.
Scripture on the Path
The use of Holy Scripture on the labyrinth can be
meaningful. For example, a disciple may read a portion of scripture
before entering the labyrinth. Moving toward the center remember event,
persons, teaching, history, phrases and images of the scripture.
At the center, reread the text and ask God to
reveal the LivingWord to you – speak to you. Let go of the words of the
scripture and listen from within your spirit.
As you leave the center to go back into the world,
allow the Word to enlighten your path and your spirit as Jesus’
disciple. Allow Jesus to teach and guide you in faith living.
Note: Poetry, music, prayers and other materials
may be used. Be careful that these materials not get in the way of your
being with God.
Support for the Journey
If using the labyrinth has helped you identify
specific needs or concerns and you need spiritual direction or pastoral
counseling, please call your priest or pastor as soon as possible. A
sign of health and strength is asking for help when it is needed. The
clergy of St. Luke's Episcopal Church would welcome your call and
respond to your need. Call Fr. Lee Stephens at 336-1212. Downloadable /printable Labyrinth Brochure |
