Since the Middle Ages Christian communities have adopted the labyrinth as a symbol – perhaps the most famous is that at Chartres Cathedral in France, installed in 1201 and providing a model for churches of many denominations. Walking the circular path of the labyrinth is a spiritual and democratic tool for prayer and meditation, a sacred walk to the participant’s sacred inner space.
On Sunday, January 7, Christ Lutheran Church in Long Beach dedicated their labyrinth, made possible in part by a Mission and Ministry Grant from the Southwest California Synod and the efforts of Justin Randig, who together with his family, his troop, and members of the Christ, Long Beach congregation completed it for his Eagle Scout project.
Justin and his labyrinth crew began with an often-flooded, badly drained courtyard, part brick and part grass. Getting rid of the bricks, the grass, and a birdbath, they graded the land and laid down a burrito (or French) drain. After hours of organization, communication, dedication, and determination to make the space welcoming and holy, it is now a place of communion with God and community with God’s people — for labyrinth walks, CLC preschool children riding trikes, and fellowship events.
The congregation also prepared by holding classes on labyrinth history, meditation, prayer, and walking. And through his hard work, organization, and determination, Justin achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, with his Court of Award this March.
“We are very grateful for the generosity of the Mission and Ministry Committee for helping us turn a vision into a reality and for giving us yet another way to reach out to the community by offering a place of contemplation and prayer,” said Pastor Pam Challis. “I have already seen people I do not know enter and use our space. What a gift this will be for all who wish to use it.”
Funding for Mission and Ministry Grants are made possible by undesignated Mission Support offerings from synod congregations, which is shared both with the synod and with the ELCA Churchwide organization. Thank you to our SWCA Synod congregations, who make projects like the Christ, Long Beach labyrinth possible.
Apply for a Mission and Ministry or Warner Trust Grant by January 19! Application information for both grants is available here.
Interested in labyrinths as a spiritual resource? Check out the Labyrinth Society website.