Our labyrinth is a modern installation of an ancient archetypal symbol. Throughout history millions from diverse cultures have traced the paths of labyrinths by finger or foot. Designs from the classical and medieval eras remain the most widely walked labyrinths.
The labyrinth is configured as a processional design, with two entrances side-by-side in front. It is a seven-circuit labyrinth and is forty feet in diameter (just two feet less than the famous labyrinth at the Chartres Cathedral near Paris). The path meanders within the circular boundary for a total length of about 475 feet. A person walking at a slow pace and stopping occasionally to meditate should allow eight to ten minutes to walk the labyrinth.
General
Labyrinths are not mazes. Mazes contain cul-de-sacs and dead ends. They are designed to make us lose our way; they're a game. Labyrinths have the exact opposite purpose: they are designed to help us find our way. In a labyrinth you can trust the path--giving up conscious control of how things should go and being receptive to your inner state.
The word "circuit" is used to describe the number of times the path circles around the center. The classical seven-circuit labyrinth goes around seven times. This is the oldest known form of labyrinth, dating back four to five thousand years.
How To Walk the Labyrinth
There is no single “right” way to walk the labyrinth. However, for those who have never walked one before, the following steps offer direction.
The labyrinth is configured as a processional design, with two entrances side-by-side in front. It is a seven-circuit labyrinth and is forty feet in diameter (just two feet less than the famous labyrinth at the Chartres Cathedral near Paris). The path meanders within the circular boundary for a total length of about 475 feet. A person walking at a slow pace and stopping occasionally to meditate should allow eight to ten minutes to walk the labyrinth.
General
Labyrinths are not mazes. Mazes contain cul-de-sacs and dead ends. They are designed to make us lose our way; they're a game. Labyrinths have the exact opposite purpose: they are designed to help us find our way. In a labyrinth you can trust the path--giving up conscious control of how things should go and being receptive to your inner state.
The word "circuit" is used to describe the number of times the path circles around the center. The classical seven-circuit labyrinth goes around seven times. This is the oldest known form of labyrinth, dating back four to five thousand years.
How To Walk the Labyrinth
There is no single “right” way to walk the labyrinth. However, for those who have never walked one before, the following steps offer direction.
- Receive - At the threshold
Pause for a moment to give thanks. Tap into gratitude for the gift of this day, for life, for nurturing relationships, for the world around you. You may choose to focus on a word, prayer, or intention.
If a specific situation brings you to the labyrinth, hold it gently in your mind, perhaps forming an open-ended or a healing question. - Release - Entering the labyrinth
Our labyrinth is configured as a processional design, with two entrances side-by-side in front of you. Consider each path and choose the one which invites you. Both paths lead to the center.
As you walk, let go of expectations. If you’ve chosen a word or phrase, you may wish to align your intention with your breath or your footsteps. Relax and move at your own pace. - Receive - Pausing in the center
In the center you will find a stone cairn, an ancient symbol marking a path has been walked by others or a place as sacred. This is a place of contemplation. Pause at the cairn and linger in reflection. Listen to what may be arising up in your heart. Offer up any questions, emotions, thoughts you may have.
Stay as long as you wish. - Return - Outward through the labyrinth
When you are ready, you may choose to retrace your steps or follow the second path out. As you make the return journey, be open to any insights or peace you received in the center. Receive this as a gift to carry with you after you leave the labyrinth.
The FCC Labyrinth was dedicated to our former Pastor Molly Smothers and her spouse, Leon, on May 31, 2015.
First Christian Church, Morehead, KY is a non-profit, religious organization.
Copyright 2025
Copyright 2025
