The Labyrinths

An Ancient Spiritual Tool Comes to Life at APC

"Its solved by walking..."

--St. Augustine

What is the labyrinth?

The labyrinth is a spiritual tool that recognizes that walking can be a spiritual experience and that movement can be a prayer. For St. Augustine , walking is the way we contemplate, the way we discern and the way we best encounter the divine.

When did APC begin using the labyrinth?

APC’s labyrinth, painted on canvas, was created by the Christian Spirituality Team, which is part of Educational Ministries.

It was first used at APC on Ash Wednesday, 2005. Conducted in Fellowship Hall, the service was dedicated in memory of Rev. James Koob, who served APC as an interim associate pastor. Since then, APC has held many Taize worship services around the labyrinth. These services are centered around prayer and meditation. APC volunteers have also shared the labyrinth with other churches.

What is the history of the labyrinth?

The labyrinth is rooted in ancient times and is part of the pattern of floor tiles in many of the great European Christian cathedrals. The Celtic cross and knot, as well as the sacred circles of ancient civilizations, also bear features of the labyrinth pattern.

Who should participate in the labyrinth?

The labyrinth is for Christians of any faith. It has no doctrines and requires no particular belief – instead people bring their own unique beliefs to the experience of walking.

The labyrinth represents unity in the midst of diversity. Individuals walk on their own spiritual pathway as they walk alongside those whose beliefs and practices are different than their own.

What are some characteristics of the labyrinth?

The labyrinth is a tool for a sacred experience in the

The labyrinth
allows us to be attentive to God’s presence in new and fresh ways.

same way that music and artwork can help us

experience something sacred. Alone it is only an

object. But when combined with our intention to seek

God, it can achieve the purpose for which it was

designed.

How is the labyrinth used as a spiritual experience?

Although there is no one way to experience the labyrinth, the following are a few suggestions:

Prayer—walk the labyrinth and allow prayer to happen with your whole body

Presence — the labyrinth may be the place to experience the presence of the triune God, a time of union with Christ

Discernment—questions, concerns or requests may be brought to the labyrinth experience when divine wisdom and guidance are sought

Metaphor – at times, the labyrinth may be useful as a metaphor for living. Reflecting on your experience with the labyrinth may tell you something about your own life

Be watching the Mission Call and Glad Tidings for more information about the labyrinth

APC Contact: Holly Inglis – 303.422.3463, ext. 16, or holly.j.inglis@arvadapc.org