The All Saints Labyrinth

Our Christian walk is one of following Jesus on the sacred path which he himself is. This sacred journey involves change and growth, discovery and discernment, movement and stillness. The labyrinth is an ancient symbol that models our lifelong spiritual journey, full of meanderings and switchbacks yet with a purpose and a goal.

Walking the labyrinth is a form of prayer and meditation. Probably the most famous labyrinth is inside Chartres Cathedral, under the Rose Window. All Saints' labyrinth is located between the sanctuary and the parking lot: like the journey the labyrinth models, our labyrinth is situated between the altar where the church gathers and the world into which the church is sent.

A labyrinth is not a maze, not a puzzle to be solved as we try to find the right path. The labyrinth has only one path, and the way in is the way out.

Take time to collect yourself for prayer before you begin your labyrinth walk. Maybe you'll offer a favorite prayer, or you might make the sign of the cross before setting out on the path. Pause at the bench in preparation for as long as you need to, then follow the pathway to the center, using everything that happens along the way – not only the switchbacks of the labyrinth, but also any distractions you encounter – as mirrors of your life.

Pour out your pain to God; allow yourself to be surprised by joy. Ask for mercy; express your gratitude. Experience your body in motion; let your soul be still. Enjoy the center when you arrive there; there is no need to hurry on. Then, when you are ready, follow the pathway out. Perhaps you will want to pause at the bench for a meditative moment before you cross the threshold from the labyrinth back into the world.

The bench next to the Labyrinth was constructed by George Bushnell as his Eagle Scout project. Sometimes we need to rest beside the path.

Perhaps this is the path you have been seeking.