Churches invite Presbyterians to walk in circles to become 'co-creators with Divine forces' By John H. Adams The Layman Online Friday, June 15, 2001 ILOUISVILLE, Ky.– Presbyterians were invited to walk in circles to be "co-creators with Divine forces" in the Kentucky International Convention Center near the hall where the General Assembly met. Signs led them to two labyrinths in a dimly lit room. Those who turned aside for quiet reflection walked slowly in concentric circles while listening to softly sung Latin chants. The Layman Online was given permission to take a photo of one of the labyrinths not being used, but not of the second labyrinth, where two women quietly strolled. The labyrinths, circular designs about 50 feet in diameter, were installed in the convention center by two Louisville congregations, Trinity Presbyterian Church and Second Presbyterian Church. Promotional literature appealed to people who have "a need for healing, a need to be co-creators with Divine forces and a need for self-knowledge. The labyrinth is an archetype of wholeness, a sacred place that helps us rediscover the depths of our souls." In some ways, the labyrinths seemed to reflect the tone of the General Assembly. According to the literature, "There is no set 'way' to walk the labyrinth. It is a tool that can help you come to a deeper awareness of the Divine. It helps to just experience rather than bring an expectation." If one remains on the labyrinth for the full circuit, the course arrives at the center. The literature offers these words of assurance, "There are no blind alleys or dead ends."

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