The Prayer Labyrinth at St. Andrew

… a  place to retreat, rejuvenate and reconnect with God ...

St. Andrew’s Prayer Labyrinth is located at the rear of our property, and can be seen from the glass doors that lead outdoors from the sanctuary. 

The Labyrinth  is here for you … use as a prayer aid and tool, a short but meaningful stop in a busy day or for self-led meditation.

What is a Labyrinth

The labyrinth in human culture and recorded history dates back at least 3,500 years.  At first glance, a labyrinth may appear to be a large maze or puzzle built on the ground.  However, at closer look, a labyrinth has a unicursal layout, meaning a single path leading to the center with no loops, forks, or dead ends.  As such, it is not a puzzle meant to incite confusion, but a simple path meant to illuminate and clarify.

The labyrinth is a universal symbol of the journey through life.  In Christian terms, the thread that leads us on this journey is divine grace.  Like any pilgrimage, a walk on the labyrinth represents an inner pilgrimage toward the center of our being, which is God. 

Adopted by Christians from ancient practice, labyrinths were a feature of many medieval worship spaces.  One of the best examples remaining today is at the Cathedral in Chartres, France.  In recent times, the spiritual quest has led modern pilgrims back to the practice of walking the labyrinth as a way to draw closer to God through meditation and prayer. 

Walking the Labyrinth

The labyrinth walk is unique in its simplicity and beauty.  There is no “right” way to traverse the path.  Each traveler can approach the journey on his or her own terms.  However, consider these thoughts as you proceed.

Preparing for the Journey... Unpack worldly baggage by leaving behind cell phone, keys,  watch, pocket change, and any other items that might cause distraction. 

Setting Off... Begin with a prayer that God will open your heart and mind to receive whatever He has to share during your time on the path.  As you go forward, release concerns, let go of worry and do your best to quiet the mind. 

Finding Your Center... When you reach the center, open yourself to God’s call and seek His peace and serenity.  Take time to learn, experience and accept whatever this unique moment offers.

Reflecting... Leave when the time feels right, following the same path you took into the center. Review your experience and prayerfully consider how it may be applied to your life and circumstances.

Taking the Gifts With You... Seek ways to remember your experience on the path and take it back to illuminate and bring greater peace to your everyday life. 

Beyond the Basics

After you have experienced the simple journey, you may wish to return to the labyrinth for …

Intentional Walks… to seek guidance on a specific intention, issue or concern.

Intercessory Walks… to offer prayer for specific people or needs, perhaps praying for a different concern at each turn on the path.

Meditative Walks…  to meditate on a specific word or scripture, such as the Lord’s Prayer or the 23^rd Psalm.

About Our Prayer Labyrinth 

The St. Andrew Prayer Labyrinth was planned, designed and built as an Eagle Scout project by member Joseph Owen.  Joseph says that he decided to build the Labyrinth as a way to bring people out onto the beautiful grounds surrounding the church and closer to God. 

The builders included a large and diverse group of Joseph’s fellow Scouts and friends.  Our faith community feels very blessed that Joseph selected St. Andrew as the recipient of this special gift to our members and guests who will come to enjoy it!

The Prayer Labyrinth is a special addition to our property and will be a long-term tool for spiritual nourishment and growth of our members and guests.   

Prayerfully consider making a donation to support this project!  We welcome your gift at any time (just make a note on your check or offering envelope that it’s for the “Labyrinth”), or donate online by clicking here, then follow directions and be sure to specify “Labyrinth” in the blank space next to “Other.”