A Prayer Labyrinth walk has opened on Block 69 at Encounter Lutheran College, created in partnership with Victor Harbor Lutheran Church

In 2019, Encounter Lutheran College purchased 69 acres of land, directly to the north of the existing property, bordering Adelaide and Waterport Roads and extending to the main roundabout into Victor Harbor.

“We have always been keen to explore ways that the space on ‘the block’ could be used to promote a greater understanding of our spirituality, and the relationship that exists between ourselves, others, God and creation,” said Kelvin Grivell, Principal of Encounter Lutheran College.

As the College Pastor from Victor Harbor Lutheran Church, Nigel Rosenzweig has had a long interest in developing sacred spaces, interactive prayer stations and labyrinths. Similarly, “I have always dreamt of having a labyrinth on campus at Encounter,” said Kelvin, after having experienced the valuable reflection time that comes with walking a labyrinth. So when the opportunity came for Victor Harbor Lutheran Church to apply for a LLL (Lutheran Laypeople’s League) 100th-anniversary grant which was successful, the dream came to life.

Volunteers from Victor Harbor Lutheran Church helped to create the labyrinth at the College, across six short busy-bees leading up to Easter.

Labyrinths have been used across cultures as tools to aid mindfulness, wellbeing, awareness and prayerful reflection. Research has shown that walking a labyrinth can help people slow down and focus their thoughts. With the help of a simple word, idea or verse, the slow walk can create a space for people to give attention to the thoughts on one’s heart and mind.
“People often enjoy going for long walks. Walking helps us think more clearly” said Pastor Nigel.  “Labyrinths enable people to take a lengthy, slow walk in a small space. The corners in the labyrinth ensure that the walker slows down”.

“The new Labyrinth has already been a blessing to our College community, with every student at Encounter engaging in this space during Holy Week,” said Kelvin.
The Labyrinth was open to the local community for 3 hours on Good Friday afternoon, where 140 people were welcomed to experience the labyrinth walk, with some visitors travelling up to 2 hours to attend.

“We look forward to our labyrinth being a place of retreat and reflection for our staff, students and many others in the years ahead,” said Kelvin Grivell.

L-R: Pastor Nigel Rosenzweig (Victor Harbor Lutheran Church), Mr Ross Smith (CEO, LLL Australia), Kelvin Grivell (Principal, Encounter Lutheran College)