The Labyrinth

Located behind Cannon Memorial Chapel and the Columbarium and Memorial Garden, the Labyrinth was installed in 2023 under the direction of the Office of the Chaplaincy. If offers a serene setting for prayer, contemplation, mindfulness practice, and rest. 

What is a labyrinth?

Labyrinths have been used for centuries as a tool for meditation, reflection, and spiritual exploration. Possibly inspired by the spirals found in nature, labyrinths have existed for over 4,000 years and been found in locations as diverse as ancient Crete, medieval Christian cathedrals, and throughout Native American and indigenous cultures. Unlike a maze, labyrinths invite those who use them to embark on a singular path with a clear beginning and end.

How to walk a labyrinth

While there is no right or wrong way to use a labyrinth, we invite you into a posture of mindfulness and contemplation as you explore the path. To walk the labyrinth, simply start at the entryway and move slowly along the path toward the center with intention. Once you reach the center of the labyrinth, linger there for as long as you’d like. You may choose to focus on your breathing, offer a prayer, or simply be still and notice the sounds around you. As you leave the center and make your way back toward the entryway, you might reflect on what you’d like to bring with you as you leave the labyrinth.

Dedicating and blessing the labyrinth 

The Labyrinth was dedicated on Saturday, June 1, 2024. This blessing, written by our University Chaplain, Dr. Craig Kocher, was offered for the occasion. 

In gratitude

The Chaplaincy is grateful to all those who contributed to the construction of the Labyrinth. The lead gift was given through the Sylvester Endowment in the Chaplaincy. We are especially thankful to David and Terry Sylvester and the entire Heilman Sylvester family for their steadfast support of the Office of the Chaplaincy and their efforts to encourage the spiritual life of the University of Richmond.

We are also grateful to the following donors for their generosity.

Bill and Elaine Bugg
Laura Lee and Ted Chandler
The University of Richmond Chapel Guild
Ron and Betty Neal Crutcher
Betty Fisher
Kevin and Tina Hallock
Carolyn and Ransone Hartz
Sandy and Tommy King
Betty and Will McLean
Sally and Mickey Syrquin