Lenten Prayer Practice: Labyrinth

Did you know that our church has a labyrinth that you can use for prayer and meditation? It is open anytime that you want to spend time with God. If you don't have time to come up to the church, you can also google "finger labyrinth" and print one that you can trace with your finger to use at home, the office, school, or anywhere you happen to be. 

But what is a labyrinth, and how do you use it for prayer?

A labyrinth looks similar to a maze, but it is different because in a labyrinth there are no wrong turns and you can’t get lost. Its meandering path will always take you to the center of the labyrinth. The goal of a labyrinth is orientation, no disorientation, making it a great tool for prayer.

Generally there are three movements in a labyrinth prayer:

Releasing (Purgation):

Begin with a simple prayer inviting the Holy Spirit to join you on the journey. Moving to the center of a labyrinth is a time of letting go. Let go of worldly attachments, fears, concerns, distractions, worries. As you move toward the center, focus on quieting your mind and becoming aware of your breathing.

Receiving (Illumination):

The center of the labyrinth is a place to sit and be with God. Open your mind and heart while spending time reflecting, listening and praying. Take all the time you need to receive what God may have for you in this time and place. This might be a time of illumination, of healing, or just sensing God’s presence with you.

Returning (Union):

Leaving the center, you are walking back out into the world, following the same path you came in. You can make this journey knowing that Jesus walks with you, letting what you’ve learned or experienced guide you. Some people experience a sense of strengthening or clarity of peace. Some may feel more empowered or more confident in their calling. Others might feel a sense of oneness with God, with self, or with others. As you leave the labyrinth, you might end with a prayer of praise or thanksgiving.

Here are some ways you might use a labyrinth during Lent:

• Ask God a question as you enter the path and listen for the answer as you walk slowly through the twists and turns of the labyrinth. Let your steps and your silence invite God's presence and guidance.

• Start your journey to the center with confession, visualizing your sins being left behind with every step you take. Sit in the middle as long as you need, feeling God's love and mercy. As you journey out, visualize yourself picking up and putting on things like the acceptance of Christ, the smile of the Father, the guidance of the Spirit, etc.

• Recite a breath prayer or favorite scripture passage as you navigate the labyrinth. You could also recite the Lord's prayer or another favorite such as the Prayer of St. Francis.

• Lay down pebbles as you walk the labyrinth, symbolizing your giving your burdens to Christ (1 Peter 5:7). As you leave, pick them back as you count your blessings.

There is no wrong way to use a labyrinth. Prayer is intentionally placing yourself in God's presence and opening yourself up to receiving whatever God has for you in your time together. 

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During this season of Lent, we invite you to join us for Morning Prayer Time on Wednesday mornings from 6-8 am. This is an opportunity for contemplative meditation and intercessory prayer, with a structured devotional and opportunity for healing prayer each Wednesday from 6:30-7 am. (Please plan to enter in the East door.)