Grand Bahama Labyrinth
An Introduction to the Labyrinth
By Barbara Chester
May 2, 2008 - 9:01:35 AM

Barbara Chester

Grand Bahama Island - Barbara Chester , a long time resident of Grand Bahama Island , is impassioned to bring a labyrinth to the island.   On Friday May 2^nd  at Freeport Art Center (RND Plaza) she will be giving an enlightening talk about the labyrinth and will share how she feels it will benefit the Island once the beautiful full-scale sacred 'Chartres' Labyrinth is created in the tranquil grounds of the Garden of the Groves. 

In recent years there has been a revival of the Labyrinth;   hardly surprising since there is so much human conflict, strife and suffering in our world.   Labyrinths offer healing to individuals, communities, countries and the planet. They are resurfacing and more are being created daily in churches, cathedrals, hospitals, schools, prisons, community parks, and private homes, where a re-connection with Creation and Divinity is so important for Peace...  There are over 2,000 across North America alone, as can be found on the World Wide Labyrinth Locator .  Our Grand Bahama Labyrinth will be added to the Locator, and this will be the first for The Bahamas.  

The first Christian Labyrinth is in the magnificent Cathedral of Notre Dame de Chartres, France.  It is such an elegant labyrinth that it became the model for most church labyrinths thereafter. The upcoming Grand Bahama Labyrinth at the Garden of the Groves will be a replica of this beautiful traditional design, and will be created in accordance with the original Christian philosophies. Originally, labyrinths were designed to provide a symbolic pilgrim’s journey to The Holy Land. Today they are used as a walk of peace, prayer and contemplation, where calming energy and reflection can bring spiritual balance to our earthly challenges.  A labyrinth has a single path that leads dependably – although circuitously – to the center. If you stay on the path, you WILL reach the center. A maze, on the other hand, has many paths and intersections, and it’s purpose is to confuse you. The Labyrinth walk is representative of Life’s journey and experiences, where pauses, breathing, praying, and walking on the path can bring us back into closer union with the Divine.

The public is encouraged to join Ms. Chester on Friday, May 2nd at 7pm, surrounded by Claudette Dean's beautiful and inspiring art , at the Freeport Art Center, and enjoy an opportunity to walk and experience a simple labyrinth which has been painted on the floor of the Center.  Labyrinths belong to everyone: it is hoped that the Grand Bahama Labyrinth in the Garden of the Groves will be embraced and owned by all the community.