Ministry – Prayer Garden

This year the College is engaged in the construction of a new prayer garden, utilising the symbolism of the ‘labyrinth’. In terms of labyrinth structure, there are 3 parts to the experience that parallel the life of Christian discipleship. First, the meandering walk into the labyrinth, which represents the spiralling complexities of human existence. The road is long and winding, but the opportunity exists for walkers of the labyrinth to let go of the things that bind and constrain them, through stillness, prayer, confession and meditation. The road in provides an invitation for Christ’s peace and forgiveness, as they draw closer to the centre of the labyrinth. Second, on arrival at the centre, walkers find themselves face to face with the cross, in the presence of the Christ who embraces them and restores them. This is a time for stillness, for listening, and an appreciation for the deep grace that the Gospel provides to individuals. The walker’s time in the centre provides opportunity for thankfulness, as peace for the soul delivers the person in readiness for the final chapter of the journey. Finally, the journey back out, once more a meandering trail that parallels the world we are returning to. On this leg of the journey, a sense of being sent is enjoyed, as the Spirit of Christ himself joins them on the journey, and empowers them for the highs and lows, the twists and turns, of life’s road ahead. As walkers leave the labyrinth, a blessing may be offered as the final spiritual component of the journey, a gift from God to buoy the spirit in its return into the world. Albert Gast Pastor

Let us go to the Lord, that he may teach us concerning his ways and that we may walk in his paths

(Isaiah 2:3

Prayer Points

• For the Prime Minister of Australia and all those who govern our free society. • For all refugees fleeing the war-torn cities in Ukraine. • For those students heading to camp in the coming weeks.