Welcome to the Chartres Cathedral.
As you can see in front of you, on the floor of the nave, the builders of this thirteenth century cathedral installed a labyrinth. To express both beauty and God’s love, they used sacred geometry throughout the cathedral and in the construction of this design.
The measurements in both correspond to those found in the human body.
The spirit of pilgrimage is linked with labyrinth walking. In treading the pathway “step by step”, we are reminded to walk humbly, let go, welcome what comes, and be grateful. The stained-glass windows around the labyrinth echo these (very) same themes.
You may wonder, “What purposes does this labyrinth serve?” To aid you by praying with your feet, to assist you in taking time to reflect, and to help you to seek the Center of Everything! By walking prayerfully, you can find greater meaning for your life and experience the grace and love of God.
As you prepare to enter, there is no need for anxiety. Remember Jesus’s words, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) There is no need to worry that you might get lost, the labyrinth is a single pathway that leads you to the center.
The labyrinth is now open for walking. You begin at the threshold stone in the west. The pathway consists of the yellow stones. Although everyone has her or his own individual experience on the labyrinth, it is also a communal walk. Everyone finds their own “right” pace. If yours is different from the person in front of or behind you, feel free to go around him or her, or let the person behind you go around you.
To pray the labyrinth here in this pilgrimage cathedral is a very special opportunity.
Take the time to reflect, contemplate, and pray, opening your heart to whatever comes.
Remember that all that happens on the labyrinth can be understood as a mirror to other parts of your life.
So, it can be helpful to ask, “How is what is happening now like something else I’m experiencing?”
When you arrive in the center, take time to integrate. There is plenty of room for everyone!
Then, when you are ready to leave the center, you can move towards the altar by walking across the black stones.
Once you have left the labyrinth, take at least a few moments to reflect. Ask yourself, What did I experience? What am I feeling now? What am I taking with me (and don’t want to forget)?
If you have any questions, feel free to ask a member of the hospitality team. We’re here to help. And now, blessings on your walk.
Information: the labyrinth walk must be done with shoes and not barefoot.