The Labyrinth
Walking a Labyrinth is a meditative practice that involves walking a single, winding path to a center and back out again. This reflective practice can offer clarity and peace and we invite you to walk the Labyrinth at KPC. The Labyrinth at KPC is beautifully situated behind the Memorial Garden on our church grounds. Read about the history of the Labyrinth below.
The Labyrinth
The labyrinth is one of humanity's oldest contemplative tools. A long walk in a relatively compact area, labyrinths can quiet the mind, provide an opportunity for contemplation, or even help to deal with grief. Dealing with grief is what prompted Meg Elliott to conceive of a labyrinth for the Kenilworth Presbyterian Church campus. Meg, a native Chicagoan and current member of KPC, was looking for a way to commemorate her son Jesse, who, at age 21, took his life. Before moving to Asheville, Meg had used labyrinth walking for healing at several Chicago churches, where she literally put one foot in front of the other after her profound loss. "How we walk the labyrinth," says Meg, "is symbolic of how we deal with grief." A labyrinth at KPC and the sacred space it provides would allow Meg to continue to walk her healing path; it would, as well, provide the opportunity for others to walk, and with their own stories.
Meg's first step in making her vision a reality was consulting architect and fellow KPC member Mike Cox to help with the plan. Once a plan was in place, Meg sought someone who could do the actual building. Developer Mike Hawks was just that person, and in 2022, the KPC labyrinth became a reality.
At the center of the labyrinth is a plaque with Jesse's name, birth and death dates, and the words, "For all those who struggle."
Kenilworth Presbyterian Church offers the Longest Night Service during Advent and invites all those interested to walk the labyrinth prior to the service. We invite you to gather for prayers, comfort, and hope. All are welcome.
