Walking the Labyrinth


During the Middle Ages, the practice of making a pilgrimage on foot to Jerusalem became impossible for Christians. Labyrinths were created in cathedrals for the purpose of making a symbolic journey to the Holy Land.

Walking the labyrinth is prayer in motion. Some say it is a threefold path bringing about a deeper union with God.

The walk from the entrance of the labyrinth to its center represents a letting go, or purging of things that block communication with God.

The second stage may be found in the center of the labyrinth; it is here that the walker rests in whatever the experience offers.

The process of retracing one’s steps to exit the labyrinth provides an opportunity to integrate any insights gained into one’s daily life.


If you have never walked a labyrinth, simply begin. There is no “right” way to pray the labyrinth, and you can’t get lost, because there is only one way in and out.


Some suggestions to get started:

Make your walk one of gratitude. You can pray, “Thank you Jesus for...” and list everything for which you are grateful.

Pick up a stone and hold it in your hand until you can identify a burden you are carrying. As you start toward the center, feel its weight grow heavier as you move to the center. When you arrive in the middle, leave it there, giving it to Jesus who will transform it.

Pick a word or phrase to repeat such as, “Come Lord Jesus”, or the Jesus pray, “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me”, as you walk the Labyrinth.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to walk the labyrinth. Do whatever is most comfortable for you and begin your journey.