Welcome to the Neighbourhood Celebration of the James Bay Labyrinth
Musicians led by Jennifer Turner will fill this special place in Irving Park with magical sounds, and lyrics will be provided to help you join in. We'll be singing Taize songs. Come to this very special space in the heart of James Bay (bring a lawn chair!) and enjoy a beautiful fall evening before winter closes in.
What is a labyrinth?
The labyrinth is a walking meditation, a path of prayer and an archetypal blueprint where psyche meets Spirit. It has only one path that leads from the outer edge in a circuitous way to the center. There are no tricks to it and no dead ends. Unlike a maze where you lose your way, the labyrinth is a spiritual tool that can help you find your way. The path is in full view, which allows a person to be quiet and focus internally.
Generally there are three stages to the walk: releasing on the way in, receiving in the center and returning when you follow the return path back out of the labyrinth. Symbolically, and sometimes actually, you are taking back out into the world that which you have received.
There is no right way or wrong way to walk a labyrinth. Use the labyrinth in any way that meets what you need while being respectful of others walking. You may go directly to the center to rest quietly – whatever meets your needs.To prepare, you may want to reflect before walking the labyrinth. Some people come with questions, others just to slow down and take time out from a busy life. Some come to find strength to take the next step. Many come during times of grief and loss.
You are welcome to walk the Labyrinth at any time you choose, either during the music program or at 7:10 pm – the official time of Fall Equinox when the music will be finished and silence will prevail if you prefer to walk the Labyrinth in silence.
Children enjoy the labyrinth and we ask that parents supervise their young children so all may enjoy the meditative aspects of the walk.
Credits: Veriditas