The Labyrinth
St. Thomas Labyrinth
The labyrinth at St. Thomas offers a means of active prayer. It provides a quiet space for walking and reflection in a beautiful outdoor setting that reminds us of the wonders of God’s creation. There are many benefits to walking the labyrinth including quieting the mind, stirring creativity within, providing peace during times of sorrow or strife, and inspiring gratitude for God’s love.
History of the Labyrinth
The patterns of the labyrinth are ancient, and are found in cultures around the world in many different forms. The labyrinth entered Christian prayer life during the Middle Ages. The Medieval Eleven Circuit Labyrinth, placed in the Chartres Cathedral in 1201, is the pattern found on the grounds of St. Thomas Church.
Today, people around the world use the labyrinth to quiet the mind, to find balance, and to encourage insight and celebration. Labyrinths are open to all people as a non-denominational cross-cultural tool of well-being and are now found at sites as varied as medical centers, prisons, spas, and memorial parks as well as at churches. In the English language, the words labyrinth and maze are incorrectly used interchangeably. The labyrinth differs from a maze in that it has only one path, and there are no dead ends.
Labyrinth Usage
St Thomas’ Labyrinth is free to use for the general public. However, groups can reserve private use of the labyrinth for special events.
“The Merton Prayer,” Thoughts in Solitude, Thomas Merton
My Lord God,
I have no idea where I am going.
I do not see the road ahead of me.
I cannot know for certain where it will end.
nor do I really know myself,
and the fact that I think I am following your will
does not mean that I am actually doing so.
But I believe that the desire to please you
does in fact please you.
And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing.
I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire.
And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the right road, though I may know nothing about it.
Therefore will I trust you always though
I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death.
I will not fear, for you are ever with me,
and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.
“A Blessing for the Journey,” Walk in a Relaxed Manner: Life Lessons from the Camino, Macrina Wiederkehr
May flowers spring up where your feet touch the earth.
May the feet that walked before you bless your every step.
May the weather that’s important be the weather of your heart.
May all of your intentions find their way into the heart of God.
May your prayers be like flowers strewn for other pilgrims.
May your heart find meaning in unexpected events.
May friends who are praying for you carry you along the way.
May friends who are praying for you be carried in your heart.
May the circle of life encircle you along the way.
May the broken world ride on your shoulders.
May you carry your joy and your grief in the backpack of your soul.
May you remember all the circles of prayer throughout the world.
Recommended Prayers
The Labyrinth Path, Halli Chambers
Walk with a sense of humor;
It will ease your burdens.
Walk with a sense of adventure,
And be open to new possibilities.
Walk with a sense of gratitude,
And be receptive to abundance.
Walk with a sense of JOY,
And experience joy with others.
Walk connected to the Earth,
And be grounded in your world.
Walk connected to others,
And have love in your heart.
Walk with intention,
And create your reality.
Walk with God,
And find your place
In this Universe.
Where is the Labyrinth?
The Labyrinth is located beside our church. Follow the stone path to the entrance of the labyrinth. The wooden stand at the entrance provides helpful information.
Can I walk alone?
Yes! Parishioners and visitors are invited to walk at any time during daylight hours. More than one person may be on the labyrinth at any given time. There is no right or wrong way to walk the labyrinth. Everyone walks at their own speed with their own thoughts and intentions. So, don’t hesitate to start your walk if someone is already on the path. Just be mindful of others and approach the labyrinth quietly.
Can I walk with a group?
Yes! Walking in a group builds community and strengthens connections. Whether you are with family members, friends, or co-workers, walking together offers time for fellowship, celebration, mutual support or shared intention.
