Mercy provides labyrinth for spiritual reflection

By KATIE LEFEBVRE, Globe staff reporter
May 3, 2007

Mercy Medical Center-Sioux City presented "The Labyrinth Journey" on April 26 and 27 in the hospital's South Lobby.

"This gave us an opportunity to say, 'this is what we believe in as a sacred culture of mercy,'" said Sister Marlys Becker, a chaplain at Mercy and one of the organizers of the event. "I wouldn't want to miss that opportunity. We take advantage of opportunities for enhancing the sacred culture within the hospital."

She noted that this is one of the activities of the spiritual committee, a sub-committee of the wellness committee at Mercy.

In cooperation with Morningside Presbyterian Church in Sioux City, the Wellness Committee at Mercy Medical Center made the labyrinth floor-canvas available throughout the day on April 26 and 27.

Certified facilitators were available to explain the labyrinth with a PowerPoint presentation. People were able to walk through the labyrinth at any time.

According to Cathie Bishop from Morningside Presbyterian, a labyrinth is a prayer and meditation tool in the form of pathways that people can walk.

The circular labyrinth is an ancient Christian symbol that represents the path of grace in the journey of life.

"I hope that people find some connection with their own spirituality and with their own God," said Bishop. "It is another way to do that. I think the labyrinth has really touched a spiritual dimension for people to connect in their soul."

Contemporary labyrinths, where walkers move from the edges to the center of the circle, are used for meditation, reflection, discernment, comfort and prayer. Some refer to the labyrinth experience as "meditation in motion."

"Anyone who enters will experience the positive energy that is within the divine mystery and is all around us. They will have their own positive experience of the spirit of God working in them," said Sister Marlys.

Labyrinths of many types are still being created around the world at churches, hospitals, wellness centers, nursing homes, schools and community centers - even in private yards and parks.

There are two different types of labyrinths - Chartres and classical. Most labyrinths have 11 circuits or paths however the canvas labyrinth that was available at Mercy had seven.

Sister Marlys mentioned that there is no "correct" way to walk the labyrinth.

"No two walks are exactly the same," she explained. "All you need to do is enter, follow the path, and forget your cares. Much of the time, participants reflect, or recite a Bible passage or favorite prayer while letting go of their worries and concerns. It is a great opportunity. We know that it will enhance the spirituality of those who walk it."

There were several people - staff members, guests - that journeyed through the labyrinth.

Those walking the labyrinth were given tips as how to best experience it. The recommendations included observing a reflective silence, considering themselves a "holy wanderer," walking with a listening heart, repeating a sacred word, mantra or phrase and praying.

Once at the center - the sacred place - it was suggested to pause as long as needed and to allow themselves to receive insights that could be a source of meditation as they walked back to the edge of the labyrinth.

Following their walk, each person was asked to write about their experience in a book.

"We always want to know if each opportunity is helpful and how it is helpful," said Sister Marlys.

She explained that writing in the book is for the committee's benefit along with being an inspiration to others that may read the entries.