what is a prayer labyrinth?

A prayer labyrinth is an ancient tool used to help facilitate reflection, prayer, and meditation.  


Many people use them to help quiet the mind, calm anxieties, and reduce stress. It is not a maze with dead ends to trap you. It is a circuitous winding path that leads you from the outside to the center and back. There are changes in direction, but the path is always leading towards the objective. 


While the word “labyrinth” does not appear in the Bible, themes of following God’s way, being on a spiritual journey, and the need to be aware of God’s presence are found throughout scripture. These are all experiences that are central to the purpose of a labyrinth. 


Prayer labyrinths are not new. They were in use in Christianity at least as far back as 325 CE on the floors of churches. For many centuries Christians used them as a symbol of a pilgrimage they may not have been able to take to the Holy Land, to walk where Jesus walked. 

how do i use a prayer labyrinth?

There is no one right way to use a prayer labyrinth. Here are some things to consider as you plan your spiritual journey. 


As you walk a prayer labyrinth, you stand on a physical representation of your journey seeking a closer relationship with God. Before you enter the labyrinth for this spiritual journey, consider inviting God to walk with you. Ask for grace to hear the words God is speaking to your heart and for wisdom to notice what is happening in your mind. 


Enter the path and walk at a pace that feels natural and be mindful that God is with you. You can reflect upon your journey of faith, the unexpected turns along the way, and the times it feels you are moving farther away from or closer to the center.  


On your way to the center you may wish to pray for clarity on what God wants as you work to center yourself on God’s will in your life. On your way back out you can meditate on what that means and what God wants you to bring out into the world with you. 


Another option is to worship and praise God as you walk to the center, then pray for people and concerns as you walk back out. 


Afterwards, reflect upon your walking meditation. Consider writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Review it at a later time and explore what stands out to you.  

“My Eagle Project is a prayer labyrinth approximately 20 feet in diameter, with a path of decomposed granite lined by paving bricks, outside of First Christian Church McKinney. The prayer labyrinth is right next to the parking lot so anyone can use it.  


A prayer labyrinth is a spiritual tool used for prayer, insights, centering, and connecting to God. My vision for this project is for people to have a place where they can have an uninterrupted spiritual experience while getting to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. 


The prayer labyrinth will give the congregation of the church and anyone else in the community a convenient place to meditate and become closer to God. The labyrinth is also way for the church to be available to the community while giving the members of the church a place to focus their thoughts on God.” 


-Tanner Guthrie, Troop 909 March 2024