A pilgrimage in SU’s own backyard

Nestled in the leafy sanctuary behind Loyola Hall is Seattle University’s newest sacred space. 

The recently installed labyrinth, which was dedicated on March 3, is described on signage as “both a tool and a container in which to engage the gifts of Ignatian Spirituality: integrating the head and the heart, igniting the imagination, listening to the wisdom of the body and discerning the movement of the Spirit. 

“Walking the labyrinth is a spiritual practice that quiets the mind and invites deep listening to the soul. Unlike a maze, with its dead ends and false turns, the labyrinth has a single path to the center and out again. This pattern mirrors the inner and outer movement of the spiritual journey.”  

Symbolizing “wholeness and unity,” labyrinths have been around for more than 4,000 years. “In the Christian tradition,” the signage continues, “labyrinths were incorporated into many of the medieval cathedrals across Europe. It is believed these labyrinths were walked as a form of pilgrimage.” 

Seattle University’s labyrinth is a gift from Mary Ellen Weber, ’04 MATS, and Pamela Gow.