Since 325 A.D., labyrinths have been used by Christian churches. What exactly is a labyrinth? According to Jill Geoffrion’s article titled “Christian Uses of Labyrinths,” labyrinths are a “spiritual tool to draw closer to God.”
The process of praying through a labyrinth draws one closer to God as they reach the center. Themes related to the labyrinth experience are found in scripture and include “following God’s way, spiritual journeys, and enjoying God’s presence.” Geoffrion states, “Using a labyrinth involves moving one’s body and opening one’s heart to Jesus. All you have to do is follow the path and you will find the center.”
The University has received a one-time grant of $9,400 in order to construct a labyrinth on the St. Davids campus. The purpose of the Labyrinth is both educational and experiential, but is mainly, as a facet of cultivating community among all the schools within the University. The press release stated that the grant was to “explore how the understanding and experience of the labyrinth deepens the faith formation of participants.”
The money, generously granted by The Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, will be used towards speakers, workshops, education, publications, and the design and construction of the labyrinth itself. Dr. Joseph Modica, University Chaplain, and Meggin Capers, Director of Conferences and Special Events stated in the official press release, “This idea was birthed many years ago by our community.
We are delighted to see it come to fruition.”
For more general information about labyrinths or specific questions on the project, please contact Dr. Modica.