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St Mary’s LABYRINTH

 

 

“Remove the sandals from your feet, for the ground on which you are standing is holy ground.”

Exodus 3:5b

What is a labyrinth?                  
A labyrinth is a sacred space where we can spend time with God and focus on our life and journey in Him.
Unlike in a maze, it is impossible to get lost in a labyrinth. There is only one way in and one way out.
The only choice we have to make is whether or not to follow it.
In following the single path that leads to the centre and back out into the world, this physical journey reflects the inner spiritual journey we all make. The twists and turns of the path both echo the ups and downs of our everyday lives and force us to slow down and calm our minds.
Just as in our lives we may think the path is taking us away from our destination, in a labyrinth we do eventually reach the centre.
There are no set responses or expected results from ‘walking a labyrinth’, but on the journey we are enabled to be aware of God’s presence with us.
We have time and space to make our own prayers and responses to God as He meets us where we are.
 
Walking the labyrinth.
There are many reasons for walking a labyrinth:
To be quiet and bring any worries or concerns to God or to give thanks for something special that has happened.
To help focus your mind before beginning the walk, you may wish to say something such as,
“I am a pilgrim seeking…” and here recall why you are walking the labyrinth.
 
There are three stages to the walk -
On the way in:
As you walk towards the centre you can bring your thoughts and concerns to God. You may wish to think of things to be thankful or to pray for as you make each turn towards the centre. Be aware of God’s presence with you as you walk.

At the centre:
This is a place for reflection and being still with God after letting go of your concerns on the inward journey.  Sadness, joys, prayers and decisions can all be left here before you begin your journey back.
Take as long as you need here with God.

Your return journey:
On the path back out into the world, take with you what you have learned on your journey.
Know that God’s presence and love is with you as you leave the labyrinth and on all the paths you take in life.
 A labyrinth enables us to be aware of God as we journey towards the centre and take this awareness of His presence into the journey of our everyday lives.
The important feature of this is not the destination but what we learn on the journey itself.
Things to consider.
You may wish to take your shoes off while you walk. This will help the labyrinth become for you a holy and sacred place.

It is possible that other people will be using the labyrinth at the same time. You might meet people coming in, going out, facing you and joining you in the middle. Simply step aside to let the other pass.

A labyrinth prayer:
Leading God, you call us towards you, nearer and nearer.
As we approach, help us to leave our fears and worries behind.
May we put down the burdens we carry and give us courage to walk your way today and forever.  Amen.

As you begin your walk:
Calm me O Lord as You stilled the storm;
Still me O Lord, keep me from harm.
Let all the tumult within me cease;
Enfold me Lord, in Your peace.

As you leave:
Lord, You have been with me as I have walked this labyrinth;
Be with me as I continue my journey in You in the world. Amen
Further information.
‘Walking the Labyrinth: A Spiritual and Practical Guide. Sally Welch, (2010)
www.lostinwonder.org.uk  - an online labyrinth produced by the Methodist Church.

This page is also available as a downloadable leaflet for Adults,  Children and Infants.
(Note: when printing set Page Scaling to None)
  
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it."
Isaiah 30:21 

From the Guest Book:
"Absolutely wonderful. A haven of tranquillity."
"What a lovely experience. Thank you for having such a tranquil place for all to share."
"Lovely and peaceful; the reflection of the stained glass windows reminded me of others who would have journeyed here."