Labyrinth

“A labyrinth is a single entrance, single path circuit that leads to a center and is meant to quiet the mind. Since the destination is assured, with no obstacles to overcome, what remains is the deeply meditative and purposeful discipline of setting one foot in front of another. As one labyrinth walker put it, ‘You walk out the same way you walk in, but you’re not the same.’”
How to Walk the Labyrinth — A Guide for your Spiritual Journey

The labyrinth entrance and starting
point for your walk.

Labyrinths have been used for centuries. Their origin is unknown but the first indications of labyrinths date as far back as 4,500 years ago. Interest in labyrinths has revived in the last twenty-five years as interest in spirituality in general has increased. The labyrinth is a “spiritual tool.” It is a way of connecting to God, centering oneself, focusing one’s mind in prayer. Its circularity and turns to the left and right reinforce an integration of the left and right hemispheres of the brain, bringing balance and help in calming, clarifying, and focusing.

The Indian Heights United Methodist Church Labyrinth and Prayer Gardens were constructed in the Spring and Summer of 2004 with the purpose of offering an alternative tool for spiritual growth for both our congregation and our surrounding community.

Our labyrinth is a custom designed, seven-circuit pattern. It was based on the classic Cretan Labyrinth. Pavers and crushed granite were used to build the permanent structure and to provide a sure and steady footing. It was designed with the busy, 21st century pilgrim in mind. Because of its size and unique pattern, a person can complete their walk in approximately thirty minutes and still have a deeply satisfying experience. Of course, you may stay as long as you like and take as much time as you need. Walking the labyrinth is a sacred activity and is not to be rushed.

We encourage you to first prepare yourself for your walk by spending some time in quiet reflection in one of our two prayer gardens. Conscious and mindful preparation often leads to a deeper, more transformative experience.

The Butterfly Prayer Garden lies to the immediate north of the labyrinth entrance and affords you an expansive view overlooking the southern vista. The Butterfly Prayer Garden lies directly North of the labyrinth entrance.

The Shade Prayer Garden is nestled just to the south, under the protective boughs of a majestic cedar tree. Each garden was designed to provide a uniquely pleasant environment as you prepare for your walk. The Shade Prayer Garden is nestled under the branches of a majestic cedar tree, just South of the labyrinth.

We invite you to visit our Labyrinth and Prayer Gardens. You are welcome at any time. Please keep in mind that our labyrinth is an extension of our church. It is a sacred site. We ask that you treat it with reverent respect and leave it in the same pristine condition as you found it.

Walking a labyrinth is a journey of faith. We wish you traveling mercies and God’s blessings. Welcome to our labyrinth. It was created for you.

The Longest Night Luminaria Labyrinth Walk
Friday, December 22, 2006, 6:00 P.M.

Grace and Peace,
The members of Indian Heights
United Methodist Church

Indian Heights United Methodist Church is located at the corner of 103rd Street and Nall Avenue in Overland Park, Kansas. The labyrinth and prayer gardens are located just off 102nd Street, on the Northeast corner of the property.