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What Is A Labyrinth?

The labyrinth is one of the oldest contemplative and transformational tools known to humankind, having been used for centuries for prayer, ritual, initiation, and spiritual growth. It is unicursal, that is, there is only one route to the center and back out again: no blind alleys, dead ends or tricks, as in a maze. Once you set your foot upon its path, the labyrinth gently and faultlessly leads to the center of both the labyrinth and yourself, no matter how many twists and turns you negotiate in the process. Since the destination is assured, there are no obstacles to overcome, no muddles to figure out, no dead ends to retrace. What remains for the labyrinth walker is simply the deeply meditative and symbolic discipline of setting one foot in front of the other, of honoring the journey itself and what it has to teach. The mind can be stilled and attention paid to the body, the wisdom of the heart, and the graces of being, rather than doing.

Walking the labyrinth, either individually or in a group walk, fulfills six important contemporary needs: deepening spirituality; inwardness and connection to the soul; access to intuition and creativity; simplicity; for integration of body and spirit; and intimacy and community.

The Prayer Labyrinth in Mt. Zion's Fellowship Hall

Stages in a Labyrinth Walk

There are three stages to the labyrinth walk, and you are free to make of them whatever you like: Shedding, Illumination, and Union.

SHEDDING: As you are walking in, it is a time to release and let go of the details and tensions of your life.

ILLUMINATION: When you reach the center, be still, sit or stand. It is a place of prayer, meditation, listening, feeling God's Presence. Receive what is there for you to receive.

UNION: As you walk out you feel at one with God, neighbor, self, and nature. Each time you walk the Labyrinth you become more empowered to find and do the work God is calling you to.


The Prayer Labyrinth becomes a mirror for our lives; it touches our sorrows and releases our joys. So walk it with an open mind and an open heart!


Photos from the original announcement

Participating in a Labyrinth Walk can be like going
on a symbolic journey, or taking part in a religious dance.
Labyrinth at King of Peace Episcopal Church