Winter Solstice Indoor Walking Labyrinth

December 21st, Tuesday

5:45p – 7:15p

RE youth and volunteers will sponsor our church’s 3rd annual Winter Solstice Labyrinth. Please consider this our gift to you and yours during a normally hectic time of year
A Brief Historical Story of the Labyrinth…

For over 4,ooo years humans have left races of labyrinths scattered on our planet. Labyrinths
appear to emerge and re-emerge over generations, morphing slightly to fit the aesthetic times
of many cultures. Some of the earliest findings (from 2000BCE) of walking labyrinth designs,
located in southern Europe & northern Africa, take the form of rock carvings. The Ancient
Romans began laying mosaic pavements in complex designs. These Roman walking labyrinths
have been found in various places throughout the Roman Empire. In Medieval times, a monk
named Otfrid is credited with adding more complexity. Otfrid’s eleven circuit design becomes
the blueprint for beautifully designed floors within many churches and cathedrals across Europe.
Christian churches utilize their labyrinth designs as a method of pilgrimage for ardent Christians
unable to visit the Holy Land. For followers of First Nations’ spirituality, labyrinths have been
closely related to their relationship with the medicine wheel. Buddhist find it an avenue to
practice “the Buddhist walking meditation.” A labyrinth is simply a large design which allows an
individual to travel a journey starting out, going in and then back out again.
What can I expect at this In-Door Labyrinth?
A quiet, candle lit design within a climate controlled sanctuary. It is an experience which is very
individually focused. Paradoxically, the communal nature of the walk also allows for reflecting
on the way you relate to others you may meet. You only have to enter and follow the path.
Allow a slow pace and see where your mind takes you.
Please mark your calendar and invite a UU or non-UU to attend. All are
welcome to participate.