Learning to Walk a Labyrinth in Lexington
Maybe like me, your first introduction to a labyrinth was the 1986 film starring David Bowie. This isn’t exactly what I’m referring to here when I say labyrinth. They’re actually an interactive instrument for prayer! Aaron and I had not visited one before until a few weekends ago we explored two in Lexington.
Similar to the movie, a labyrinth has several twists and turns but these do not form a maze. Generally, they are built in the shape of a circle so one can walk on it or trace the pattern with one’s fingers. (There’s all types: indoor, outdoor, and some are printed on paper or canvas or sewn on small handheld pouches!) It has a beginning, starting at the outer edge, and an end, in the center. There are no dead ends, so you cannot get lost. (Phew!)
The process of walking the labyrinth from beginning to end is meant to reflect the non-linear journey of life. Those who step into the circle are sojourners, taking on a pilgrimage.
“The labyrinth represents the spiritual journey, inward to our inner selves and the Sacred within, outward to the world held in God’s love and yearning for peace and justice.”
— Rev Dr Margaret Mayman
“And that is the gift, because every time I walk the labyrinth, at some point, I stop walking and I start laughing. After the seriousness and judgment and “doing it the RIGHT way,” there’s only love…God’s love, the community’s love, and lastly my own love. No matter how many times I walk, no matter how much I’ve grown, the labyrinth tells the truth as to where I am in this life. Over and over.”
— Alizabeth Rasmussen, What I have Learned on the Labyrinth
“Walking home to country is a connection our people have always had with Mother Earth. Our culture is defined by the closeness of family circles and staying connected to the people within it. The labyrinth invites and welcomes people to walk the path together – it calls them to the land in oneness.“
— Aunty Ali Golding, Aboriginal Elder, Biripi Nation
The first was located outside the Church of Our Redeemer. It was built from brick pavers with different colors marking the path. Aaron and I enjoyed walking back and forth. Aaron chose to pause at each turn and say a prayer, while I walked slowly and reflected on my day. This labyrinth is adjacent to a community garden and another church or two.
The second was tucked away between the buildings of Grace Chapel’s Lexington campus. It was less polished than the first and a little harder to find, but the surrounding tree branches and bushes added privacy and charm. The path itself was outlined with stones.
Walking prayer or meditation is not completely new to me. I often feel God’s presence most when taking a walk outside. Moving my body during prayer is freeing and the pattern of the labyrinth offers a dedicated, focused space for this to flourish.
We found these two labyrinths using labyrinthlocater.com. I was surprised to see so many within a reasonable driving distance. I highly suggest looking up the labyrinths in your area.
Want to learn more about walking a labyrinth?
If you’re curious about the history and concept behind labyrinths, take a glance at one of these resources:
