Fla. Labyrinths traditionally have either seven or 11 circuits or paths. The one on display in Abilene will have 11 paths and will take approximately 30 minutes to walk. Labyrinths have enjoyed a renewed interest since 1991 when Dr. Lauren Artress, canon at Grace Episcopal Cathedral in San Francisco, spearheaded a group that brought the labyrinth back to public awareness. A labyrinth copied from one laid in the floor of Chartres Cathedral in 1220 was fashioned from canvas and paint, much like the one coming to Abilene, and was opened to the public at Grace Cathedral on Dec. 30, 1991. The response was phenomenal and since then labyrinths have proliferated around the country.
Purgation involves a releasing of the details of one's life, shedding thoughts and emotions.
Once that level is reached, the walker stops in the center of the labyrinth for a time of illumination involving prayer or meditation. That illumination is followed by a union or joining with God. A labyrinth is not to be confused with a maze, which features obstacles and blocked paths. Walkers in a labyrinth follow a path that leads to the center, a symbolic journey taking the walker to God. Artress, who introduced the labyrinth to San Francisco in 1991, believes the circular path leading inward cleanses and quiets, allowing the walker to leave the labyrinth with a renewed spirit.