The labyrinth is an ancient symbol dating back more than 4000 years and examples of its design are found in many ancient cultures. The classical or seventh circuit labyrinth, differing from the one found at St. George’s in that it features a less circular design, can be found on coins of ancient Crete. It is therefore often associated with the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur.
A labyrinth however should not be confused with a maze. A maze is a puzzle with twists, turns and dead ends that requires logical, analytical thinking to solve.

A labyrinth on the other hand has only one clear, though circuitous, path in to its center and out again. With no choices to be made, the labyrinth invites intuitive, creative, contemplative involvement.

The Labyrinth at St. George’s is modeled after the labyrinth at Chartes Cathedral near Paris, the most famous labyrinth remaining from the Middle Ages. Built around 1200 A.D., the Chartes labyrinth was meant to be walked as a pilgrimage or for repentance. As a pilgrimage it was a quest to become closer to God and would serve as a substitute for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. As a journey of repentance, pilgrims often walked on their knees.

St. George’s labyrinth is an eleven-circuit design divided into four quadrants. The pilgrim wanders through each of the quadrants several times before reaching the rosette design at the center. The rosette has ancient symbolic values, including that of enlightenment. After reaching the center, the walker follows the path in reverse back to the place of entrance.

As metaphor, the labyrinth symbolizes the journey from the outside world to the center of self, and then back to the outside world with a deeper understanding of who you are. Joyful or somber, there is no “right” or “wrong” way to walk the labyrinth. Each journey brings its own reward.

St. George’s labyrinth is open every day and night of the year. Everyone is welcome. For those wishing more guidance in walking the labyrinth at St. George’s, we hold training sessions periodically. In the past these have taken place on Thursday evenings once a month. Watch for upcoming sessions in the Events listing or the Weekly Announcements.