You are invited to walk the Mary Labyrinth at The Basilica!

Unlike a maze, which befuddles and confuses the walker, a labyrinth is a form of contemplative prayer that takes us on a journey of discovery. A labyrinth's winding path mimics the road of life, with its unexpected turns: walking it is a miniature pilgrimage that helps us to reflect on our life. The Basilica’s Mary Labyrinth was commissioned and mown into the west lawn in June of 2008.

O, Blessed Virgin Mary, as we walk, hear our prayers both spoken and unspoken.

The Basilica of Saint Mary’s labyrinth begins at the threshold of the Mary Garden, and is dedicated to Mary, the blessed mother of Jesus. Walk The Basilica’s labyrinth while contemplating your own pilgrim journey through life, and recall the life paths of Jesus and Mary. As you walk the “long arms” of the Mary labyrinth, consider how God’s love embraces us. Nearing the center, where the labyrinth’s circular paths enfold us, reflect on how God nurtures us and how we can nurture others as instruments of God’s peace and justice.

Additional information about the Mary Labyrinth. Find the Mary Labyrinth on the Labyrinth Finder.

Why is a labyrinth part of the peace site initiative?

The Basilica became a peace site in April and the Mary Labyrinth is part of that initiative. The labyrinth is an ancient tradition used in early Christian times as a substitute for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. They’re used for centering, calming, healing, transformation, meditation, and personal and spiritual growth—by children and adults, individuals and groups. At The Basilica, we see the labyrinth as a way toward peace. With each labyrinth walk, we hope individuals will find new inner peace—an added peace within our community and the world. For more information and to get involved in the Basilica labyrinth initiative, call 612.317.3477.

Looking for other Labyrinth experiences?

Visit the Worldwide Labyrinth Locator to find other labyrinths in the Twin Cities and all over the world!