Walking the candlelit labyrinth was a peaceful way to celebrate the winter solstice for dozens on Sunday night. Participants took a candlelit paper lantern to the center of the labyrinth, pausing for reflection and walking out on the path at the Armenian Heritage Park on the Greenway. Following the candelight walk, many tied ribbons on the Wishing Tree, an ancient tradition. After walking, many gathered over hot cidernear the abstract sculpture on the chilly December evening.
“This Candlelit Labyrinth Peace Walk provides participants an opportunity to slow down and reflect on where they are on their life journey and to walk in union with others as we all hope for peace and calm in this busy season and chaotic world,” said Beth Mace, President and Co-Founder of the Labyrinth Guild of New England. Several walkers spoke about wishing for a more peaceful year ahead after the recent attacks in Paris and San Bernadino.
The labyrinth walk was inspired by a family from Hawaii, visiting the Greenway park last year. Continuing the tradition, the group returned this year including Christine Osterwalder, Alex Leonard, Cara Leonard, Rob Abe and Ian Shaw. Architect of the park, Donald Tellalian and his wife Barbara, were also on hand to help put together the gathering.
Sponsored by the Labyrinth Guild of New England, the Candlelit Labyrinth Peace Walk is an initiative of the Friends of Armenian Heritage Park on the Greenway in collaboration with the Millennium Bostonian Hotel, Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Conservancy and Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
