Labyrinths fell out of use over time,
but the past 30 years have seen a
resurgence in their construction
among both Christian and
non-Christian groups. Local
labyrinths can be found in
sacred, secular and interfaith
spaces including churches,
parks, healthcare facilities and
memorial gardens.
The key feature of a
labyrinth is that it takes
time to complete the jour-ney
— longer than you
might expect when you
first approach the entrance.
Pilgrims are held within a
relatively small space, putting
one foot in front of the other,
alone with their thoughts for
perhaps many more minutes
than usual. It is a sort of
self-imposed, brief retreat. The
restriction, the lack of choices
along your way, enables walk-ers
to focus on their inner life
for the time it takes to follow
the path to the center and back
out again.
In and around Wilming-ton,
these circuitous walkways
provide community space for
contemplation.
www.wrightsvillebeachmagazine.com 27
WBM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETER NEWMAN/AERIAL IMAGES ILM
A LABYRINTH IS A PLACE YOU GO TO BE FOUND.