For information about the Labyrinth ministry at Church Street, please contact Dave and Barbara Carr
at 769-9702.
Church Street's Labyrinth
The Church Street Labyrinth is a
7-circuit design adapted from the traditional 11-circuit labyrinth found at Chartres Cathedral in France. Our
Labyrinth offers you the opportunity for solace in the midst of a hurried and noisy life.
At Church Street, our
labyrinth is available to walk on holy days, on healing service Sunday evenings (the last Sunday of the month), and at special times during the year.
History of the Labyrinth
More than 25 centuries ago, early cultures around the Mediterranean Sea created a circular
design that captured the concept of unity. Slowly with the passing of time, this geometric design
evolved into what is more easily identified today as a labyrinth.
Early Christians, desiring to express their faith in prayer, adopted the labyrinth. Walking its
circular path to the center symbolized a way to Christ. When the Crusades of the 11th century made
pilgrimages to Jerusalem nearly impossible, churches in Europe then encouraged the use of the
labyrinth as a substitute for the pilgrimage.
In our post-modern era, this sacred archetype is found
worldwide in churches, hospitals, museums, parks and corporate buildings.
Walking the Labyrinth
Enter into the experience of walking the labyrinth with an attitude of stillness and anticipation. Put your problems
and concerns aside and connect with your mind, body and soul to enjoy a time of quiet prayer and
meditation. Be aware of your feelings and invite the Holy Spirit to be your guide.
Walk at a pace that is
comfortable for you. In this sacred space, you may tarry in prayer and meditation as long as you desire. As you
walk the labyrinth, be present and remain open to the Holy Spirit working within your heart. When meeting
others along the labyrinth, simply step aside allowing them to pass, then continue your walk on the path.
The path leads to the center, where you may remain in the six-petaled rosette to pray, journal or rest. As you
return from the center to the quiet surrounding the labyrinth, reflect upon your journey knowing that
people of all ages experience comfort and spiritual growth during their walks.
