The Jubilee Labyrinth at Norwich Cathedral
What is a Labyrinth?
A Labyrinth is not a maze. There is only one entrance, one path and no choices, tricks or dead ends. A maze is designed to make you lose your way; it is a game. A Labyrinth serves the opposite purpose; it is designed to help you find your way. By encouraging you to walk without having to think about where to go next, it can enable you to be still, to let your mind escape the bustle of everyday life and reflect.
Labyrinths can be found all over the world and in all sizes. The best known is probably the forty-two foot Labyrinth in Chartres Cathedral. At the opposite end of the scale is the twenty-four inch Labyrinth in the wall outside Lucca Cathedral where the visitor traces the pattern with a finger to quieten their mind before entering.
Why did Norwich Cathedral construct a labyrinth?
The Norwich Cathedral Labyrinth was laid in the Cloister Garth to commemorate in Norfolk the celebration in 2002 of the Golden Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II.
The Queen has travelled very widely during the years of Her reign. A Labyrinth speaks of journeying, and also has at its heart the Christian idea of a spiritual journey. There is only one path with all its twists and turns, which speaks of the journey of our days. It is possible to walk the Labyrinth as a spiritual journey. On the way to the centre the pilgrim walks the way of the world, asking God's forgiveness for wrongdoing and seeking to make amends. On reaching the centre, there comes a moment for the pilgrim of opening up to the grace and love of God before returning along the path, seeking to follow in the way of Jesus Christ.
This memorial is most appropriate for of HM Queen Elizabeth II who in her Christmas Message at the Millennium, used these words: ‘For me, the teachings of Christ and my personal accountability before God provide a framework in which I try to live my life’.
In addition to this idea of the journey, the Labyrinth can be a place of interest and pleasure for children and adults alike. The cost was raised by donations from the people of Norfolk.
Ten reasons for you to come and walk the Norwich Cathedral Labyrinth
- To give thanks
- To solve a problem
- To take time out
- To dream
- To seek guidance
- To resolve a conflict
- To grieve a loss
- To release a fear
- To pray and be with God
- Or just for fun!
Norwich Cathedral Labyrinth Workshops
On the first Saturday of every month at 11am we offer the opportunity for people to come together to walk the labyrinth. All are welcome: no fee and no need to book. For further information email or telephone 01603 218327.