Page 27 - Priorities #44 2009-July

Monastery News
The Priory Labyrinth:
A Metaphor for Life
by Father Martin
Labyrinths have been around for centuries. They’re walking meta- phors for our walk through life. Walking the labyrinth is like a per- son’s life; it also reflects our walk with God. Sometimes you’re close to the center, and sometimes you’re at the edge.
The Priory Labyrinth, designed by alum parent Bob Waterman of Waterman and Sun Residential and Garden Design, is designed in the Celtic tradition with a seven circuit pattern. Labyrinths are more commonly circular but this one has been elongated to respond to its particular space on this planet earth. The labyrinth blessing ceremo- ny is scheduled for sometime in late August.
When most people first hear of a labyrinth, the usual response
is that it is a maze. However, the labyrinth is nothing like a maze. A maze has many twists and turns, many exit points and can be confus- ing. A labyrinth only has one path and its purpose is to help spiri- tually focus and ground the labyrinth walker. The Labyrinth is an archetype, a divine imprint, found in all religious traditions in vari- ous forms around the world. Labyrinths have been around for many thousands of years, yet have regained popularity in recent times. The labyrinths of today are used for walking meditation and prayer.
Tim Molak, Head of School, believes the labyrinth will enhance the Priory’s campus by allowing people from all faiths to reflect on their own spiritual journey through life. “We have a wondeful cha- pel, the John Erkman Garden, and now the Priory Labyrinth,” said Mr. Molak, “this completes our campus by giving the Priory commu- nity both internal and external prayer and meditative spaces.”
When the labyrinth opens, please walk it thoughtfully, prayer- fully or in meditative inner quietness. Find your way of arriving at the center. Metaphorically, the center has many levels of meaning, among them: the journey to the center of this reality, the self, the spirit, God within.
The labyrinth winds throughout and becomes a mirror for where we are in our lives. It touches our sorrows and releases our joys. Walk it with an open mind and heart.
May what you gain or abandon on this journey, inward and back, serve you well.