We have
a newly installed Prayer Labyrinth in the lower level of our
building. This eleven circuit labyrinth is similar to the labyrinth
in the Chartres Cathedral near Paris, France, which was built around
1200. It is available the first Friday of every month, prior to and
following the monthly Taize service which takes place at 7:30 p.m.
Other open hours are announced.
History of the Labyrinth
The Middle Ages showed a renewed interest in labyrinths and an
eleven-circuit design divided into four quadrants became
popular. Labyrinths were often found in Gothic Cathedrals; the most
famous of these remaining labyrinths is at Chartres Cathedral
near Paris, France. Built around 1200, it is laid into the floor
in a style sometimes referred to as a pavement maze. The
original center piece has been removed and other areas of the
labyrinth have been restored.
At the center is a rosette design which has a rich symbolic
value including that of enlightenment. The four arms of the
cross are readily visible and provide significant Christian
symbolism.
The Labyrinth - A Spiritual
Tool
The labyrinth is a tool which offers opportunity to take time
out from our busy lives, and leave schedules and stress behind.
Walking the labyrinth can bless our lives, and lead us to
discovery, insight, peace, solace, and direction. As a work of
the Spirit, the labyrinth is more about the journey than the
destination, about ‘being’ rather than ‘doing’, integrating body
and mind, reason and imagination, thought and feeling into our
harmonious whole, as God intended.
Many people walk the labyrinth in thoughtful prayer, giving
thanks and praise, and asking God's help for themselves and
others. Others empty themselves, shedding the confusion and
busyness of their minds. The labyrinth allows us to better focus
on our relationship to God.
How to Walk the Labyrinth
To walk the labyrinth is to touch God and let God touch us. It
is a matter of presence
and response.
The labyrinth does nothing to make God more present for God is
always present.
The labyrinth can make us aware of the presence of God in our
lives.
So, be silent,
Walk
Listen
Wonder
Receive God’s gifts
Go in peace on your journey
More specific information about walking the labyrinth is
available in the church office or you can download and print
this pdf.
The Labyrinth: A Holy Walk
When is the Labyrinth Open?
The labyrinth will be open for walking on the first Friday of
every month, prior to and the following the Taize worship
service, at 7:30 p.m. There should be a host present. Additional
open hours are posted seasonally.
Special Thanks
We are grateful to the Wisconsin United Methodist Conference
Foundation, the Foundation of the United Methodist Church of
Whitefish Bay, members of the congregation and other
contributors for assisting in the procurement of this labyrinth.
We trust that it will be a blessing to you in your
faith journey.
