A Richmond church is inviting the community to the opening of a 42-foot labyrinth footpath in its backyard.
Our Saviour Lutheran Church, in partnership with Richmond Hospice and Richmond Funeral Home, is hosting a dedication celebration on Sept. 21 at 10:30 a.m. for the official opening of the labyrinth to the public.
The project, titled Labyrinth of Our Saviour, is located in the church's backyard on No. 4 Road, just south of Westminster Highway.
It is intended for families experiencing grief and loss, as well as anyone in the wider community looking for a space for spiritual reflection.
The circular labyrinth footpath is made of pavestones and is surrounded by low-growing plants with several benches around the circle.
Several trees, donated by the Garden City Conservation Society, have been planted, with more to come.
The labyrinth offers a place of solace for anyone in the community in need of a quiet space by themselves or with family, explained Christoph Reiners with Our Saviour Lutheran Church.
“This is a tool that we offer to the community to explore what it means to be human and what it means to embark on this pilgrimage through life,” said Reiners.
The celebration will include a welcoming and blessing by Reiners, recognition of donors and volunteers as well as a live band performance.
A member of the church, Eva Harris, said the celebration is mainly a way to thank the community for supporting the project.
"I'm amazed at the support in the community, the generosity of the folks and their total interest in (this project)," said Harris.
"We weren't exactly sure how it was going to transpire and look, so to see the development of this project and the people who have helped us come up with amazing ideas to make it better is just great."
Several community members have already been seen walking along the labyrinth footpath at the church.
"Whether it's of curiosity or they needed the space, it makes us happy knowing people are here at the labyrinth," said Reiners.
Erin MacPherson, manager of Richmond Funeral Home, described the labyrinth as “more than bricks and mortar.”
“It builds awareness and empathy within the Richmond and Lower Mainland community around the topics of grief and loss,” said MacPherson.
“I think it’s a place for people of all faiths to seek solace during a difficult time or a time of meditation or thought.”
The dedication celebration will be held at Our Saviour Lutheran Church at 6340 No. 4 Rd., with parking available along Number 4 Road and at A.R. MacNeill Secondary School at 6611 No. 4 Rd.
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