Labyrinths: A Circle of Meditation

A labyrinth is a pattern with a purpose, an ancient tool that speaks to a long-forgotten part of our consciousness. Lying dormant for centuries, labyrinths are undergoing a revival of use and interest. They offer a chance to take time from our busy lives, to leave schedules and stress behind. Walking a labyrinth is a gift we give ourselves, often leading to discovery, insight, peacefulness, happiness and well-being.
The labyrinth represents our passage through time and experience. Its many turns reflect the journey of life, which involves change and transition, rites of passage, cycles of nature. Different from a maze – which has dead ends and false passages – the labyrinth has a single path that leads unerringly to the center. No time or effort is ever wasted if we stay the course, every step, however circuitous, takes us closer to our goal.
During the Middle Ages, many Gothic cathedrals designed eleven-circuit labyrinths as substitutes for the pilgrimage to Jerusalem, for use as penance, and in other sacred devotions. The most famous of these is the one at Chartres Cathedral, outside of Paris, France.

Labyrinths at St. John’s

Stone Labyrinth. This outdoor labyrinth is located on the lawn just south of the cathedral across 12th Avenue. It was created in the summer of 2020 in memory of Polly McMahon, a long time member of St. John’s. It is affectionately called Polly’s Path.

Square Labyrinth. Another permanent labyrinth is set into the floor of the Great Hall. It is an adaptation of an ancient North African design, which takes the form of a square instead of a circle. It was installed in August 2013.

Canvas Labyrinth. A lovely canvas version in the eleven-circult style is sometimes installed in the North Transept between May and September. Contact the office for more information.

Natural Labyrinth. This wonderful labyrinth–made of rocks, branches, and shrubs–can be found on the bluff overlooking the Cathedral to the southeast. Once a year, the Sunday School children climb the hill to maintain this secret treasure.