FUUNO Community Labyrinth Walks
Walking the labyrinth, or watching other people walk the labyrinth, is a process of centering and connecting, a walking meditation that supports the practice of mindfulness. It is a way to quiet the mind, recover a balance in life, and encourage meditation, insight, self-reflection, stress reduction, and to discover innovation and celebration. Some people come with questions or concerns to walk through, others just to slow down and set aside daily distractions. There is no right way or wrong way to walk a labyrinth. FUUNO holds community labyrinth walks at least four times a year, coinciding with the solstices and equinoxes. As Unitarian Universalists, our celebration of these seasonal events (solstices and equinoxes) is rooted both in our 7th principle: Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. . . ; and in our 6th source: Spiritual teachings of earth-centered traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature. As we mark the turn of the seasons, we recognize our interconnectedness with nature and celebrate its wonders and miracles, as has been done by our ancestors for countless generations.Doors open at 6:30PM; we invite you to sit quietly to reflect before walking the labyrinth. The labyrinth walk begins at 7 with musical accompaniment. We always welcome volunteer support. People interested in developing a deeper understanding of labyrinths can also benefit from volunteering. Just come 30 minutes before our session begins and be prepared to assist with set up, greeting participants, and taking down candles at closing.
By Kristin Grassel Schmidt
One: Spirit of Guiding Love, we give thanks today for all of the people who followed a dream, and whose vision, persistence, labor, and commitment have given us the gift of this labyrinth.
All: Bless this labyrinth and all who use it.
One: We give thanks for the all of the time, talent and treasure that has gone into its creation.
All: Bless this labyrinth and all who use it.
One: We give thanks for the many whose expertise in drawing plans and moving earth and laying bricks have turned this dream into a reality.
All: Bless this labyrinth and all who use it.
One: This path leads in only one direction, ensuring we never lose our way but rather find our way unfolding before us.
All: Bless this labyrinth and all who use it.
One: May this sure path serve to comfort and guide us in times of uncertainty, loss, and discernment.
All: Bless this labyrinth and all who use it.
One: May this labyrinth we dedicate today be for us and for our wider community a tool of the never-ending spiritual quest.
All: Bless this labyrinth and all who use it.
One: May the use of this pathway serve as an outward symbol of the journey of our inner, spiritual lives.
All: Bless this labyrinth and all who use it.
One: May the same spirit that drew us all into being and into this community draw forth from each person who uses this pathway the wisdom and reflection they need to grow into their best selves.
All: Bless this labyrinth and all who use it.
One: May all who leave this pathway be blessed with more love, focus, compassion, and serenity than when they entered it.
All: Bless this labyrinth and all who use it.
