A labyrinth is a symbolic pilgrimage or journey to the Divine. Unlike a maze, it has only one path to the center and out again. You cannot get lost.

Labyrinth Etiquette

Labyrinth walking is normally a very personal activity, Therefore it is important to show respect for fellow walkers.

DO choose your own pace. (Will it be a snail's pace or will you dance?)

DO feel free to pass a fellow walker who is going slower than your pace.

DO give yourself permission to smile or to sing softly.

DO feel free to greet someone walking the opposite way with a smile or touch.

ALWAYS remain respectful of your fellow walkers and refrain from disrupting their meditation.

Preparation for Walking the Labyrinth

Some questions to guide you: What is of concern to me? What questions do I bring before God? How can I best prepare my heart as I approach God?

Stand on the threshold stone and center yourself with a deep breath or prayer, then state your intension. "I am a pilgrim seeking..."

Walking In

this is a time to leave behind distractions as you enter sacred space. try to be simply and fully present. Pay attention to your body. Choose your own pace. Rest when you need to.

Being in the Center

This is the time to rest in the center and listen. What is God saying to me? How am I receiving God's word.

Walking Out

This is the time of walking back to the world with a renewed vision, a refreshed spirit.

After the Walk

Some questions to ponder: What is it like for me to be in the presence of God? What did I receive and how might I be changed because of it?

A labyrinth walk can set into motion many difficult thought patterns, emotions, and questions which may not immediately lead to insights or answers but may produce transformations long after the walking meditation. be patient. Express gratitude. Many people find it helpful to write down their experiences.

Some Meditation Suggestions:

1. As you walk in pray for others. At the center listen to what God has to say to you. On the way out pray for yourself.

2. Consider the three persons of the Holy Trinity: On the way in focus on God the Father manifesting Divine Power or Divine Will. At the center experience the Holy Spirit as Divine Breath, Inspiration or Wisdom. On the way out focus on the Diving Son, the epitome of Divine Love, manifested in the world.

3. Simply experience each step on the path as though Jesus is walking right there beside you.

Bring a favorite passage of Scripture with you to contemplate on your walk. Consider stories in which biblical characters are on a journey. Consider stories Jesus told or verses from the Psalms.