"The labyrinth is a spiritual tool that has applications
in many various settings. It reduces stress, quiets the mind, and opens
the heart. It is a walking meditation, a path of prayer..."
The Rev. Dr. Lauren Artress, Grace
Cathedral, San Francisco, California
The labyrinth is an ancient pattern: a large circle, with a single winding, circuitous path that is walked to the center; the same path is then walked back out. The winding walk often becomes a metaphor or symbol for the path or journey of live. The symbol for the path, or the journey, is common to the major religious traditions and faiths. Many have found the labyrinth a useful tool to enhance prayer, meditation, reflections, and personal growth.
There are many ways to pray; each religious tradition has slightly different variations. However, there is a common core that unites all of these prayer traditions: the mind has to quiet, the heart hopefully opens and we can pray, listen and respond to God from the deepest, innermost parts of ourselves.
Harmony Grove's Labyrinth Ministry makes the labyrinth available on a regular basis to be used:
By individuals as a tool for enhancing prayer, meditation, and personal growth.
In worship on special occasions.
By small groups and classes within the church.
By individuals and groups within the community interested in spiritual growth and development.
Harmony Grove's labyrinth is the Santa Rosa design, recently developed by Dr, Lea Goode-Harris. The design is approximately 20 feet in diameter. It is hand drawn and painted on canvas, making it highly portable. The labyrinth is large enough to enable walkers to have a meaningful labyrinth experience, yet small enough to be used in many areas too small for the larger labyrinths.
Classes and Workshops. Topics will include: an overview of labyrinths, suggestions for walking the labyrinth, tips for labyrinth etiquette, and suggestions for a first labyrinth walk as well as more in-depth classes and workshops covering additional ways to use the labyrinth as a personal spiritual tool.
Labyrinth walks and events. At least one labyrinth event is scheduled per month, usually on the fourth Sunday. Events may range from simply making the labyrinth available for open walks to special labyrinth walks or events designed around special topics, special events, or special days.
Annual Labyrinth Retreat. At least one overnight labyrinth retreat will be offered each year at the Simpsonwood Retreat and Conference Center. These retreats will allow participants to have an in-depth labyrinth experience in a retreat setting.
Harmony Grove's Labyrinth Ministry is coordinated by Dr. John W. Rhodes. He has been trained by Dr. Lauren Artress and certified as a labyrinth facilitator by Veriditas™, The Worldwide Labyrinth Project. For information about the Labyrinth Ministry contact Harmony Grove at 770-921-7747 or Dr. Rhodes at 770-921-7988 or email