Grade 5 Students Conclude Labyrinth Unit with Reflective Walk

Grade 5 students in spiritual practice recently concluded their study of labyrinths with a reflective walk through St. Margaret’s own 11-circuit medieval-style labyrinth, located in the Chapel courtyard. Built in 2012 from brick and measuring 39 feet in diameter, the labyrinth offers students a firsthand connection to an ancient spiritual practice.

As part of the unit, students explored the history and significance of labyrinths, learning that, unlike a maze, a labyrinth follows a single, winding path to the center and back. The design is not meant to confuse, but rather to encourage mindfulness, walking meditation, and quiet reflection.

Throughout the study, grade 5 students located the labyrinth on the world-wide labyrinth locator and researched similar structures around the world. The unit lesson culminated in a personal walking experience, where each student found unique meaning in the journey.

One student shared that she used the time to say prayers for loved ones. Another reflected on gratitude, mentally listing things he’s thankful for. A third student said the walk helped him let go of his worries and focus on the present moment.

“It was especially meaningful to observe how the experience resonated uniquely with each student—reflecting the true beauty of the labyrinth: it meets each individual exactly where they are,” said Jessie Akers, Lower School spiritual practice teacher.