Our Spiritual Labyrinth

What is a spiritual Labyrinth?

A spiritual labyrinth is a circular pattern on the ground that is walked meditatively. Entering the labyrinth represents a journey to your own center and oneness with God - leaving your fears and issues behind you. Dwell awhile with God at the heart and cross - feel the strength and assurance only He can give!

As you retrace your steps back out of the labyrinth into the world, feel the sense of calm and deeper faith you just received from God. Return to the labyrinth as often as you wish, it is available year round!

Labyrinths are considered sacred, healing spaces in many churches and hospitals worldwide.

Is a labyrinth the same as a maze?

No. A maze is a puzzle that purposely tries to get you lost. A labyrinth has only one path with no tricks or dead ends. It's purpose is to help you be found. You will see a cross and a heart in Porchtown’s labyrinth. As people follow the path to the heart, they are symbolically moving to the Divine source of their intuition and strength. People often say the journey deepens their faith and improves their lives.

Who can walk a labyrinth?

Everyone of all faiths (or no faith at all!) is invited.

How do you walk a labyrinth?

Let the world melt away behind you as you take your first steps - prayerfully carrying your hopes, dreams, joys and concerns to the cross. Circle around the center - linger at the heart and cross - and journey back out on the same path as you sense blessings, a calm understanding and renewed hope wash over you. Your spirit now feels refreshed as you return back into the world.

“Journey to the Cross” is located on the grounds of Porchtown Zion United Methodist Church at 220 Porchtown Road in Franklin Township. The outside labyrinth is open and available at all times with instructions provided at the entrance for the self-guided journey. Be sure to watch for Porchtown’s holiday spiritual journeys offered in the Social Hall during Advent and Lent. Email questions or comments to PorchtownChurch@comcast.net.

Porchtown's Spiritual Journeys

Walk in His Steps . . . An Easter Journey

: Nail Your Sins to the Cross

As you walk in Jesus’ footsteps, imagine yourself among the people He encountered on His journey to the cross.

Porchtown Church invites the community to “Walk in HIS Steps …" with an interactive Spiritual Journey to the Cross at Calvary. The indoor journey, which transforms the Social Hall back in time to the Holy Land, depicts Biblical scenes of Christ's life where participants learn how He fulfilled God’s plan and purpose. The ambiance is enhanced with subdued lighting, scented candles and wonderful spiritual music playing softly in the background. Journey goers are encouraged to feel the cool water of Christ's baptism, toss dice at the foot of the cross, taste bitter herbs and write their names in red paint on a scroll entitled "His blood shed for you." At the resurrection scene, they light their candle from the Christ candle and are encouraged to let their own light shine throughout the year.

The Easter Journey has public hours from noon to 4 p.m. Good Friday, 5-6 p.m. Easter Saturday and 9:30 a.m. to noon Easter Sunday .

Journey to Bethlehem ... A Christmas Journey

Porchtown Zion United Methodist Church offers a unique interactive indoor Christmas journey in preparation for the birth of Jesus. Visitors are invited to travel through Biblical moments ranging from Old Testament Prophesies foretelling the Coming of the King to the birth and baptism of Jesus in the elaborately decorated Social Hall.

Journey to Bethlehem is a self-guided tour that takes visitors step-by-step through the cherished Christmas story with ambient candlelight, spiritual music and hands-on activities. “Prepare to be transported back in time with scripture, prayers and opportunities to be blessed by each scene,” encourages Rev. Heidi Bak. “The experience promises to speak to your heart as the true meaning of Christmas comes alive.”

Journey Hours: The indoor journey will be open 3-10 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Individuals, families, and organizations are encouraged to visit the journey every year as part of their Christmas Eve Tradition.

"Journey to the Cross" Outdoor Labyrinth

: Opening Day 2008

Porchtown United Methodist Church

Where you're family!