Labyrinths have a history dating back more than 4000 years and have recently made a resurgence the world over as a tool for meditation. The single circuitous path to the center differentiates it from a maze and guides the seeker on a sacred journey within. Walking a labyrinth is known to help quiet the mind and integrate body and spirit, aiding in meditation, self-reflection, stress reduction, and prayer.
Labyrinths are an ancient Christian practice. When conflict in the Holy Land prevented medieval Christians from making an actual pilgrimage to Jerusalem, they would walk labyrinths in Cathedrals as a symbolic pilgrimage. Today they are used by people across cultures and faith traditions as a spiritual tool.
Pathways Retreat has two prayer labyrinths available for individual or group use.
The 'Renewal Labyrinth' is located just behind the Retreat House and is an eight circuit design based on the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth.
The 'Walnut Grove Labyrinth' is situated deeper into the forest and is a classic, or Cretan Labyrinth, design made up of seven circuits.
No appointment is necessary to come and walk the labyrinths on your own (dawn to dusk). Please contact us for group bookings or to have Pathways Staff or Associates guide you in a labyrinth walk.
For more about the spiritual practice of walking a labyrinth, click on the links below: