The Labyrinth at St. Francis by the Sea
You show me the path of life.
In your presence, there is fullness of joy;
In your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Psalm 16:1
Hosted by Amanda Todd, PhD, and joined by about 14 others, she explained the history of this Labyrinth and its makeup from ancient times. Her visit took place on 6 September 2025. Dr. Todd is a recognized authority on the history and structures of Labyrinths.
Please enjoy this video and JOIN US on 22 April for a fun evening. Bring food to share or use for yourself, and BYOC (bring your own chair). St. Francis will provide drinks and some light snacks such as chips. See our Facebook Page Events for details on this occasion
GUIDANCE AND REFLECTION
What is a labyrinth?
A labyrinth is an enclosed path with only one route. It winds toward a center, turns, and then wanders out again. Unlike a maze, it does not have tricks or dead ends.
In religious settings, a labyrinth is a spiritual tool that invites us to travel inward and outward, open ourselves to new possibilities, cast off old ways of thinking and being, and adopt new ways of being.
Labyrinth designs appeared in art more than 3,000 years ago. No one knows who designed the first labyrinth, but archeology shows that they were often connected with holy places and religious worship.
Our uniquely designed labyrinth is based on the Seven-Circuit labyrinth, one of the earliest and simplest designs. The most famous Christian labyrinth, created around 1200 on the floor of the Cathedral of Chartres in France, can still be walked today.
Why at Saint Francis?
Traditionally, labyrinths are constructed in "thin spaces," places where people have sensed the intersection of the sacred and secular, of heaven and earth. Recognizing the "thin space" on Bogue Banks of North Carolina, we first conceived of creating a labyrinth in 1997 to offer refuge and refreshment for all people seeking peace through transformation. Through prayer, the generosity of friends, and God's grace, we are honored to be able to invite you to join us in walking this path.
How do I walk a labyrinth? 
There is no right or wrong way to walk a labyrinth.
Walk in shoes, socks or barefoot. Make the walk your own and go at your own pace. Bring your own faith and tradition to the experience. Do your best to focus and quiet your mind. Allow the peace of the space to enter your consciousness
Ask yourself:
o What do I need from this walk?
o What questions am I carrying in my heart?
o Am I perceiving reality truthfully?
o Is there something that does not fit in my path?
o Do I have a decision to make?
o What is my next step? Is it a good step for me?
Visiting our labyrinth:
Our labyrinth is an outdoor permanent installation located to the east (right) of the church at the end of the brick walkway through our Memorial Garden. It is accessible to people of all abilities.
As you enter our labyrinth area from the brick walkway through the gate at the Memorial Garden, you will see dark brown lines on a light gray surface outlining the path. Continue to follow the brick walkway toward the left, and you will see the opening of the pathway into the labyrinth. It is directly across from the fountain, facing east. Begin your journey here.
Thank you for keeping our labyrinth a sacred space with your prayers.
The labyrinth is open daily from dawn to dusk.
If you are bringing large groups (15 or more) please call ahead or send us an email.
For more information:
We offer these resources if you want to learn more about labyrinths and how they can be used to deepen your spiritual journey:
Books:
