Jennifer Cobb Memorial Labyrinth
In Memory of Jennifer Elizabeth Cobb (1977–2015)
The All Saints’ Labyrinth is dedicated to the memory of Jennifer Elizabeth Cobb, whose life reflected a deep love of God, joyful service, and an adventurous spirit.
Jennifer earned degrees in psychology, counseling, and theological studies, was a licensed massage therapist, and was pursuing a Master of Divinity at Hood Theological Seminary. She served as a counselor, educator, chaplain, and parish administrator at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, bringing compassion, wisdom, and boundless enthusiasm to every community she served.
Jennifer’s faith was matched by her joy. Pentecost was her favorite feast of the Church, and she delighted in sharing life with family, friends, and the youth of the parish. A gifted prankster with an infectious sense of humor, she filled All Saints’ with laughter while caring deeply for everyone she met. She also loved hiking, travel, and discovering the beauty of God’s creation, always eager for the next adventure.
Jennifer’s light continues to shine in the life of this parish. May this labyrinth, dedicated in her memory, invite all who walk its winding path to journey in peace, love, and light—trusting, as Jennifer did, that every faithful step leads us closer to God.
Welcome
The labyrinth is an ancient spiritual practice found in many cultures and religious traditions. For Christians, it offers a way of praying with the body as well as the mind—a walking meditation that invites us to slow down, become attentive to God’s presence, and listen with open hearts.
Unlike a maze, a labyrinth has only one path. There are no wrong turns, dead ends, or decisions to make. The winding path always leads to the center and then returns you by the same way. At times you may feel as though you are moving farther away from the center before drawing near again. Like our journeys of faith, the path is rarely straight, but it is always leading us forward.
No two labyrinth walks are alike. You may come seeking prayer, peace, discernment, healing, gratitude, or simply a quiet moment. However you arrive, you are welcome.
Before you begin
Pause at the entrance for a moment. Take a slow breath. Notice the ground beneath your feet, the air around you, and God’s presence in this place.
You may wish to begin with a simple intention:
- Gratitude
- A question you are holding
- A prayer for yourself or another
- A desire simply to be present
“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10
“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
Walking the Path
Walk at whatever pace feels natural. There is no “right” speed. If you feel drawn to stop, do so.
As the path turns, allow each bend to become an invitation to let go of worry, distraction, or fear. Some people find it helpful to walk with a simple prayer or phrase, such as:
- “Be still.”
- “Thy will be done.”
- “Lord, have mercy.”
The labyrinth often mirrors our lives. Sometimes we seem close to our destination, only to find ourselves moving away again. Trust the path. Every turn belongs to the journey.
“You make known to me the path of life.” — Psalm 16:11
“Search me, O God, and know my heart… and lead me in the way everlasting.” — Psalm 139:23–24
Rest at the Center
When you reach the center, remain as long as you wish.
Some people use the inward journey for letting go, the center for listening and receiving, and the return journey for carrying God’s peace back into daily life. Others simply enjoy the quiet. There is no correct way to experience the labyrinth.
Be open to whatever God may offer. Sometimes insight comes during the walk; sometimes it arrives hours or days later.
Returning
As you leave the center, resist the urge to hurry. Let the walk gently prepare you to re-enter the rhythms of everyday life.
Many people discover that the return journey offers a chance to reflect on what they have received and how they are being called to live it.
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” — Isaiah 30:21
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” — John 14:27
Sharing the Space
To help everyone enjoy a prayerful experience:
- Keep silence whenever possible.
- Silence mobile phones.
- Walk at your own pace.
- Feel free to pass or allow others to pass with courtesy.
- If the center is occupied, wait patiently or continue walking until space becomes available.
- All are welcome. Every person’s journey is unique.
Ways to Pray While Walking
You may choose to:
- Walk simply for the joy of it.
- Offer prayers for others.
- Hold a question or concern before God.
- Practice gratitude.
- Walk with an open heart, releasing expectations.
- Sit quietly before or after your walk and allow the experience to settle.
A Prayer for Labyrinth Walkers
Bless, O Lord, this labyrinth and all who walk its winding path. Help us to trust this journey as a sign of our life with you. Though we may sometimes feel far from you, remind us that you are always at the center, waiting to welcome us home. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
“May each step root you deeply in the love of the present moment.
May the twists and turns awaken you to God’s unfolding grace.
May the still point at the center remind you of God’s presence within.
May your return strengthen you to carry Christ’s peace into the world.”