The Labyrinth

 Mary Lou Buser, CSJ

You may have noticed, as I have, that more and more interest is being given to labyrinths and the practice of walking the labyrinth path.  People are seeking ways to quiet themselves, become more aware, look for clarity in their lives or search their inner being.  The practice of walking the labyrinth is one method through which some of these things may be achieved. 

You may have noticed also, that we Sisters of St. Joseph, have a newly designed labyrinth on our Brentwood grounds, opposite the Renewal Center.  Our labyrinth is a Classic Seven Circuit Labyrinth.  Some of you may have walked it, others of you may be wondering, “How do I walk a labyrinth?”  The answer is simple; however you choose to.  The labyrinth is merely a path that allows one to take a relaxed journey, step by step, from the beginning to the center; spend some time in the center and then take a return journey, step by step, out from the center to the awaiting world.   

Some who walk the labyrinth on a regular basis repeat the phrase, “I am a pilgrim seeking…”  Others repeat a word, a mantra, as they walk.  Still others concentrate on their desire to realize more the center of their being as they reach the center of the labyrinth. There is no limit to the ways in which a labyrinth walk can be used.  No one way is better than any other.  You may want to just “take a walk.” 

Much has been and is being written about the labyrinth.  It has a rich history, dating back thousands of years.  Interesting theories are being proposed as to what happens in our brains as we make the right and left turns of the labyrinth path.  The Internet provides an abundant source of information for those who may be interested. 

Please feel free to visit our Brentwood grounds, discover the labyrinth and take a relaxing, meditative walk.

  Students Help at the Labyrinth

Mary Lou Buser, CSJ

 A good time was had by all and much work was accomplished on Thursday, April 24, 2008.  Rosanne
 DiBella (Lynn Caton’s sister) arrived at 10:30 AM with her students who are preparing to receive the
 sacrament of Confirmation.  The students offered their services as part of their Confirmation service
 project.  What a fine job they did!  They quickly learned how to trim the liriope plants that border the
 path, weed around the plants and rake up the debris. All agreed that Nicholas, the labyrinth mascot
 was a great help. Rosanne and Lynn provided all of us with pizza and soda to spur us on to finish the
 job. The final event of the day was a visit to Sacred Heart Chapel.