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Labyrinth gives opportunity for spiritual journey on ACU campus

Visitors arriving to Abilene Christian University will soon be welcomed by a place of quiet reflection in the form of a circular stone labyrinth. The labyrinth will represent the spiritual walk many embark upon in Christ.  

"Like our trail heads along the Lunsford Trail, and like Jacob's Dream, this is another point on campus for people to experience God, perhaps in a way that is foreign to them, but none-the-less powerful," said Kevin Watson, associate vice president for administrative services. "We want people to draw near to God. Some people hear 'labyrinth' and think of a hedge maze. This is not a maze, but a path to follow. The area can be used for devotionals, receptions, quiet time or scripture readings. It will be a versatile space." 

The Rich Welcome Plaza and Labyrinth is created in honor of ACU alumni Kenneth and Virginia Rich. In honor of their parents Jack Rich, senior vice president and chief investment officer of ACU, and his family are funding the project. Contributors include Jack and his wife Karen, brother John and his wife Cheryl, brother Alan and wife Janice Rich, sister Gail Keker and husband John Keker. Their gift is being constructed in front of the new Bob and Shirley Hunter Welcome Center.

"As a family, we know ACU is a perfect location to honor our parents because this particular place is symbolic of their lives," said Rich. "First, my parents love God and this is a spiritual place. Second, they have welcomed thousands of people into their home over the years. What better place to honor them then at the Hunter Welcome Center? Finally, they love ACU. For over 60 years ACU has been a place my parents return to be fed spiritually, see friends and celebrate with family. Now it is also a place where their lives will be honored." 

The labyrinth is constructed of limestone and granite, and is a replica of the labyrinth within the Chartres, France, cathedral. The classic design is meant to represent the Christian walk, demonstrating the path between earth and heaven and the twists and turns of life, said Rich. 

"We've been thinking about creating a labyrinth and finding a location for one on the ACU campus for the past decade," said Rich. "The Hunter Welcome Center turned out to be a great place, and the timing and finances were right. I think it's going to be an outdoor quiet place where people can just enjoy the outdoors and the pond. People can go there and reflect." 

According to Watson, the completed labyrinth will be approximately 45 feet in diameter, and will include 11 circuits. The intended path will be explained on a plaque located at the entrance of the labyrinth. Walking the full length of the path will be equivalent to traveling 630 feet or approximately three football fields. Words will be engraved throughout the limestone path to encourage walkers to reflect on their spiritual walk with God.  

The official dedication of the labyrinth is scheduled for late February.