Luminaria Labyrinth Walk Observes Season of Quiet

Olathe, KS — This time of year can be a painful, lonely time for many people. While the season speaks of holidays filled with joy, goodwill and family, some people struggle. Shorter days, longer nights, stormy weather and the stark, some say bleak, landscape can add to a feeling of gloom.

But winter can also be a time of rest and reflection. Webster defines the word “dormant” as “not actively growing but protected…” Nature uses dormancy for rest and to renew vigor. It is a necessary part of the life cycle, in preparation for growth and development.

On Thursday, December 21, 2006 — the longest night of the year — Indian Heights United Methodist Church will hold The Longest Night Luminaria Labyrinth Walk from 6:30 – 8:00 pm. The public is invited to walk the labyrinth and prayer gardens amidst the calming glow of hundreds of luminarias and embrace the quite beauty of the longest night of the year.

For centuries, labyrinths have been a spiritual tool for centering, insight, mediation and healing. The church’s seven-circuit labyrinth will be filled with luminarias and will create a sacred space for people living through dark times, holding out the hope of healing, light and renewal. A Longest Night service of prayer, readings, and music will follow the walk and be held in the church sanctuary. A quiet gathering, warmed by hot chocolate and cookies, will follow the walk and service. The event is free.

Indian Heights United Methodist Church is located at 10211 Nall Avenue, (103rd St. and Nall) Overland Park, KS. Visit www.gbgm-umc.org/indianheightsumc/ or call (913) 649-9040 for details.
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Adele L. Wilcoxen,
Public Information volunteer,
Indian Heights United Methodist Church