A “mini” Silence in the Seasons in the City:

Due to the current pandemic and phase 2 protocols outlined by the provincial government we are not able to offer our Silence in the Seasons Retreat. However I would like to invite you to consider joining me in a mini Silence in the Seasons at the Carol Shield’s Labyrinth in Kings Park.

Date/Time: June 13, 2020 9am-10am

Where: Carol Shields Labyrinth at Kings Park

Kristi Degenhardt, a friend of A Rocha, writes brief description of a labyrinth:

As a spiritual tool, a labyrinth represents a guided prayer walk. In contrast to a maze that has dead ends and choices to make along the way, a labyrinth is a single path to the centre.

Instead of a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, or the Camino de Santiago, medieval churches started to create labyrinths that parishioners could use closer to home. Whether inlaid in stone in the sanctuary or courtyard, or crafted into a garden, faithful seekers could easily access it.

Start your labyrinth walk by setting an intention. Perhaps it’s a very specific question for God/Spirit/Creator, perhaps it’s a music lyric that has been stuck in your head, maybe a line of Scripture that inspires or troubles you. It might be a deep breath alongside “what do you want me to hear/see/ponder today.” It could be a decision you’re wrestling with, or a person you are having a hard time forgiving.

And then deliberately walk towards the centre. If you’re walking with others, there will be some shuffling as you pass one another. Take note of what your senses are telling you. Maybe you repeat your intention as a mantra to stay focused, maybe you free your mind to safely wander the path that your intention has set.

Once you come to the centre, do what feels right. Close your eyes, whisper a prayer, leave a rock or flower, pause a moment. Maybe you add a layer to your intention, a follow up question, or a repeat of the initial question.

And then walk back out, taking note of when you make the final step.

If the labyrinth is grass or sand, consider walking it barefoot. If it’s in a public place, determine whether it seems safe to leave your jacket/bag/extras on the ground and walk unencumbered. Allow yourself time to jot down some thoughts or images in a journal.

And then continue about your day.

http://www.carolshieldslabyrinth.ca/

Please RSVP here

Please use the Manitoba Self Screening tool before coming to this event. If you are feeling sick in any way, or have travelled in the last 14 days, or have been in contact with someone who has Covid-19 please stay home.