Welcome
We’re happy you would like information about the Labyrinths here at First United Methodist Church Edmond, and we welcome you to come experience this ancient and modern way to deepen your spiritual life.
History
The Labyrinth has been used as a spiritual tool for centuries and exists in multiple patterns in most cultures around the world. A Labyrinth differs from a maze in that there is one path that leads to the center and back out again with no tricks or dead ends. We offer two canvas labyrinths – an 11 circuit Chartres pattern and a 7 circuit Chartres pattern.
This design is named for Chartres Cathedral in France where it was inlaid in the floor over 800 years ago. Our Labyrinths were created in 2000 by Robert Ferre and Judy Hopen at Labyrinth Enterprises in St. Louis.
Purpose of a Labyrinth
Walking a Labyrinth is a way to quiet the mind so one’s inner voice can be heard. It is a tool for deepening one’s prayer experiences, for seeking answers to life’s questions, for experiencing joy, grief, forgiveness, or gratitude. The Labyrinth does it all!
How to walk a Labyrinth
You may move along the path at your own pace, passing others or allowing them to pass you as needed.
Preparation/Remembering: This is a time to stop, pause, and reflect. Take some slow deep breaths to quiet your mind.
The Inward Journey – Letting Go: We are all on a journey, and the path inward is a time to release and let go of the details of your life. This is a time to open your heart and mind.
The Center – Receiving: Stay in the center as long as you like and receive what is there for you to receive. This is a time for meditation and stillness.
The Outward Journey – Possibilities: When you are ready to leave the center, take the same path back out. As you journey back to the beginning, reflect on how this experience will affect you as you return to your daily life. Be open to planning any necessary changes that you would like to make. Be also aware that insights may not arise right away but may unfold gradually in the days ahead.
You are encouraged to write about your experience after you have completed the path. In writing, sometimes you will see patterns or themes emerge. Often your thoughts mirror where you are in life and can be used as metaphors.
Location
We set up our two canvas Labyrinths on the third Monday of each month in the Christian Activities Center , just to the north of the main church building. The Labyrinths are open from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. We encourage you to arrive by at least 7:30 to allow enough time for your walk.
Contact
For more information please call the church office, 341-0107, or e-mail Diane Rudebock, crudebock@uco.edu or Carol Woods, hacmwoods@cox.net.