The Labyrinth
COME WALK THE LABYRINTH
Rediscover this ancient tool of
contemplative prayer.
Come experience an inner journey
Towards peace and healing
This holiday season.
April 1st 2-4 pm
April 4th 7-9 pm
April 6th (Good Friday) 1-7pm
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
2410 Melrose, Cedar Falls
Questions? call 277-8520
What is a Labyrinth?
The labyrinth is a form of walking meditation that has been used by Christians as a spiritual tool for contemplative prayer for nearly 1000 years. As the stresses of modern life have rapidly increased, the labyrinth has reemerged as a means to help quiet the mind, relax the body and refresh the spirit. It is not a maze: it has one meandering but purposeful path, leading both in and out of the center, large enough to be walked into. St. Luke’s labyrinth is based on the one in Chartres Cathedral in France.
Labyrinths are now used at medical centers, churches, prisons, schools and parks by groups as diverse as medical staff, patients and their families, prayer and meditation groups, 12 step and other recovery groups, youth groups, etc.
Our Mission
Our mission is to deepen the spiritual lives of our parishioners and share the healing and transforming power of the labyrinth with the wider community.
We feel particularly suited to the labyrinth because our patron saint, Luke, is the “beloved physician” or healer. And many have experienced healing of one kind or another through walking the labyrinth.
Public Walks
The labyrinth is spread out in our parish hall and available to the public for walking at scheduled times during Advent (December) and Holy Week (March or April). Groups may request walks at other times, at our location or offsite, for a donation.
How to walk the Labyrinth
There are many ways to walk the labyrinth, but you may want to begin by choosing a question to reflect on while walking. Quiet your mind and become aware of your breath. Follow the path to the center at your own pace. You may “pass” people or let others step around you. Allow about one minute between people as you enter the labyrinth.
Stages of the Labyrinth Walk
Purgation (Releasing)
(Releasing)The act of shedding thoughts and distractions enables you to let go of the details of your life. This is the time to open your heart and quiet your mind.
Illumination (Receiving)
(Receiving)At the center, stay as long as you like, sit or stand, meditate or pray. Allow yourself to receive guidance.
Union (Returning)
(Returning)Follow the same path back out. There can be a sense of strengthening and clarity. When you are done, you may want to journal to capture thoughts and insights gained on your walk.
To schedule a group walk or for more information contact:
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
2410 Melrose
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
319-277-8520
e-mail: st.lukes@cfu.net
www.st-lukes-episcopal.org
Information on renting our labyrinth is also available.