‘It’s a respite from the hustle and bustle’
Severna Park church’s labyrinth has become a resource for neighbors and counseling programs as well as worshipers
The Rev. Nancy Lincoln Reynolds, pastor of Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church in Severna Park, comes to the parish Counseling and Care Center as early as 6 a.m. some mornings.
She’s not always the first one there.
“Sometimes I get here really early, and there are already people walking the labyrinth,” she said.
Nestled on a parcel next to the counseling center, the Labyrinth at Woods — a circular walking path 45 feet across designed to evoke reflection, meditation and movement for thosewho use it —often draws people at all hours of the day and night.
“It’s a good way to start your day,” said Lincoln Reynolds.
Labyrinths are circular walkways that have been used since ancient times, usually to promote reflection, prayer, spiritual balance and reduction of stress.
Since its dedication last fall, Woods' labyrinth has become not only a haven for the congregation’s 2,000 parishioners, but a tool in numerous counseling programs, a resource for residents of the adjacent Sunrise senior community and a favorite stopping point for local residents and casual passersby. It’s open to all. No appointment is needed, though small groups may arrange for a guided walk.
“It’s a spot for reflection, surrounded by nature,” said Nancy Sullivan, coordinator of Woods’ Counseling and Care Center. “It’s a respite from the hustle and bustle.”
This week, the center is hosting a training session on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the labyrinth to train members of Woods and representatives from area churches, therapists and others who wish to use the labyrinth to lead group walks — part of Woods’ philosophy that the labyrinth should be open as a resource for the overall Severna Park community.
The labyrinth path and an adjacent children’s garden will also be a center of attention for Woods’ “Kick-Off Sunday” event Sept. 10, an event that includes a picnic, food, music and information about church ministries.
For information on either event, call the church at 410-647-2550, the counseling center at 410-975-9605 or go to woodschurch.org.
The Labyrinth at Woods is a modern interpretation of a medieval version that exists at Chartres Cathedral in France. Its 30-inch-wide paths make it wheelchairaccessible, and benches are placed on either side of the pathway.
A small kiosk includes brochures with
She’s not always the first one there.
“Sometimes I get here really early, and there are already people walking the labyrinth,” she said.
Nestled on a parcel next to the counseling center, the Labyrinth at Woods — a circular walking path 45 feet across designed to evoke reflection, meditation and movement for thosewho use it —often draws people at all hours of the day and night.
“It’s a good way to start your day,” said Lincoln Reynolds.
Labyrinths are circular walkways that have been used since ancient times, usually to promote reflection, prayer, spiritual balance and reduction of stress.
Since its dedication last fall, Woods' labyrinth has become not only a haven for the congregation’s 2,000 parishioners, but a tool in numerous counseling programs, a resource for residents of the adjacent Sunrise senior community and a favorite stopping point for local residents and casual passersby. It’s open to all. No appointment is needed, though small groups may arrange for a guided walk.
“It’s a spot for reflection, surrounded by nature,” said Nancy Sullivan, coordinator of Woods’ Counseling and Care Center. “It’s a respite from the hustle and bustle.”
This week, the center is hosting a training session on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the labyrinth to train members of Woods and representatives from area churches, therapists and others who wish to use the labyrinth to lead group walks — part of Woods’ philosophy that the labyrinth should be open as a resource for the overall Severna Park community.
The labyrinth path and an adjacent children’s garden will also be a center of attention for Woods’ “Kick-Off Sunday” event Sept. 10, an event that includes a picnic, food, music and information about church ministries.
For information on either event, call the church at 410-647-2550, the counseling center at 410-975-9605 or go to woodschurch.org.
The Labyrinth at Woods is a modern interpretation of a medieval version that exists at Chartres Cathedral in France. Its 30-inch-wide paths make it wheelchairaccessible, and benches are placed on either side of the pathway.
A small kiosk includes brochures with
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