The Labyrinth at Cadboro Bay United Church
The CBUC labyrinth is a thing of beauty: a bold circular design embedded in the rich original wood flooring of the Hall.
In August 2007 sixteen volunteers scribed lines and taped edges and professionals painted the labyrinth as part of a floor refurbishing project. The labyrinth is forty eight feet in diameter with sixteen inch pathways.
Cadboro Bay United Church member Jim Pearce, an engineer by profession, researched the sacred geometry of labyrinths. Jim used trigonometry and calculus to align pleasing lines to fit the church Hall.
The Labyrinth at Cadboro Bay United Church is based on the medieval 11 path design. T he most famous of these Labyrinths still remaining is located at the site of a medieval Wisdom School at the Chartes Cathedral near Paris. It was built around 1200 CE.
What is a labyrinth?
The labyrinth is a meandering, but purposeful pathway. It represents a journey to the deepest self and back out again into the world..
The labyrinth dates back to ancient times. In the past it was walked as a pilgrimage –
a questing, searching journey. It’s resurgence today reflects humanity’s needs and the planetary crisis’s requiring collective focus
Distinction between mazes and labyrinths: A maze is like a puzzle, with twists, turns and blind alleys which is designed to confuse. A labyrinth follows a singular path designed to induce calmness, contemplation and clarity.
What can walking the labyrinth offer?
ÿ The reclaiming of a lost spiritual tradition that is both traditional and contemporary
ÿ Affirming a seeker-based approach to spiritual wisdom
ÿ Stress reduction:
ÿ An intergenerational approach to spiritual practice
ÿ A way to interface with church regardless of attending services
How do I walk the labyrinth?
ÿ Preparation: Set aside time, remove shoes if you want the barefoot feeling, calm yourself, light candle(s), put on music
ÿ Invocation: Read over a scripture passage, say a prayer, ask for guidance about a particular issue or questions in your life, ask for God’s presence
ÿ Going In: There is no correct speed or pace. Follow the path without thinking of where to go or of anything at all for that matter
ÿ Staying in the centre: Ponder, reflect, cry, pray, do yoga, move your limbs, stand in each or none of the petals, be in your body
ÿ Returning to the world: Notice how you feel
ÿ Thanksgiving: Once out of the labyrinth turn, look back and give thanks and name the Holy in whatever way you want
ÿ Reflection: Begins your inner work by noticing if any clarity has come to you. Think of ways to practice your insight. Speak to a minister or a spiritual director if you want to take the reflection part deeper
When can I walk the labyrinth?
ÿ Mondays between 10:00am & 1:00pm
ÿ Tuesday between 10:30am – 1:00pm
ÿ Thursdays from 10:00am – 1:00pm
ÿ Sunday by appointment only
ÿ By booking the space for solo or group use. Contact the church office at 477-2715
ÿ Guided orientations are also available. Contact the church office at 250-477-2715
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