The labyrinth is a relatively new advent tradition at BSM which provides students the chance to reflect through prayer. Coming from the ancient Greeks, around 5000 years ago, the labyrinth prayer is still relevant within the school community as an alternative method of prayer during this time of year. 

The labyrinth is essentially a meditative walking path. A labyrinth was set up at BSM, orchestrated by Ms. Becca Meagher. “The labyrinth is a spiritual meditation with one path in and one out so the walker can really focus on whatever they are bringing to the experience,” Meagher said. 

According to Meagher, the purpose of doing this specific prayer is for self-reflection. “During this season of advent, it helps people to slow down and be reflective. Time of advent is a time of waiting and you can use this as a tool to see what are you waiting for and reflect on that,” Meagher said.

This unique type of prayer was brought to BSM by the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Ten years ago BSM bought the physical labyrinth from the Sisters of Saint Joseph to continue their tradition. Meagher feels this is important for the school. “It keeps us connected to the Sisters of Saint Joseph as well as exposing BSM students to different forms of prayer,” Meagher said. 

The labyrinth prayer occurred on December 10. BSM held the prayer on this day because it coincided with the school calendar while falling into the Advent season. This prayer requires a lot of space so there is enough room for the physical labyrinth, so the Great Hall was seen as the best fit to host the prayer. Religion teachers make a powerpoint for their classes before going to pray so the students can better understand the purpose of the prayer. “It is generally used for freshman religion classes so they can experience it at least once,” Meagher said. 

The Labyrinth is a rare chance to pray in an alternative matter. “I hope students can embrace this style of prayer and use it as a tool of reflection,” Meagher said.