Grace Community Labyrinth
We invite all to experience the Grace Community Labyrinth.
What is a labyrinth?
Labyrinths are ancient symbols of pilgrimage, or journeys to become closer to God. A labyrinth is not a maze, but a walking meditation device with a single winding path from the edge to the center, and back out again. There are no tricks, choices or dead ends in a labyrinth walk. The path in is also the path out. The labyrinth represents the journey inward to our own true selves and back out into the everyday world (Walking the Pilgrim’s Path: A Journal for Labyrinth Walkers, by Sharon Ely Pearson, 2006).
Where is the labyrinth located?
Grace’s labyrinth is embedded in the floor, inside our parish hall. Our church is located at 514 East Argonne Drive in Kirkwood, MO. Please ring the doorbell at the main entrance and a staff member will guide you to the labyrinth.
When can I visit the labyrinth?
The Labyrinth is available by reservation. Please contact the parish office at 314.821.1806 or e-mail the parish office.
How big is the labyrinth?
Grace’s labyrinth is nearly 35-feet in diameter. It is an 11-circuit device, following the design of one of the most famous Christian labyrinths in the world at the Chartres Cathedral in France.
How do I use the labyrinth?
There is no one way to walk the labyrinth. You only need to enter and follow the path. It is your journey and your experience. Take your time and walk in your own way.
We suggest you become quiet and clear your mind. Take off your shoes if you wish. Pause at the entrance and breathe. Ask God to lead you.
Walk at your own speed. If you are walking faster than someone in front of you, feel free to step around that person and continue on. If someone needs to pass you, let them do so. You may choose to greet or gently acknowledge others on the path.
Consider the three stages of your labyrinth walk:
- Releasing: As you enter, let go of the distractions of your life.
- Receiving: As you walk toward the center, open your mind and heart to the Holy Spirit. When you reach the center, stay as long as you like.
- Returning: When you are ready to leave, follow the same path out as you came in. Claim the insight, strength, comfort or anything else you may have received and prepare to re-enter the world with God’s peace.
We have several resources available at the labyrinth to help guide your walk. They are yours to use during your visit and to take home with you for reflection.
Is the labyrinth handicap accessible?
Yes! For those who rely on a wheelchair, the width of the path is not important. You can navigate the path using the "V" between your knees. It’s okay to cut corners as long as you stay focused on the path in front of you. Other walkers on the path will be happy to accommodate everyone who is on the journey!
You will find a handicap entrance on our church’s lower level, on the south side of the building. An elevator is just inside that entrance to bring you to the main level, where you will find signs to the labyrinth.
Is there a fee for using the labyrinth?
No. The Grace Community Labyrinth is free for all.
