Renewed Path of Prayer:
Trinity Mineral Point Labyrinth Revitalized Through Student Service
Written by Matthew Payne
More than a decade after it was first created, the outdoor labyrinth at Trinity Episcopal Church, Mineral Point, is once again inviting prayerful footsteps from parishioners, neighbors, and visitors alike — thanks to the helping hands of local students and the spirit of community service.
The labyrinth, located at the corner of Church Street and Iowa Street in Mineral Point, was originally created in 2014 by Justice Hendrick of Boy Scout Troop 337 as his Eagle Scout project. Built on the site of a former tennis court, the labyrinth has quietly served as a place of reflection and prayer for more than ten years.
Unlike a maze, a labyrinth is unicursal — a single winding path leading to the center and back out again. Historically found in medieval cathedrals, labyrinths became symbolic pilgrimages for Christians unable to travel to the Holy Land. Today, many churches use them as tools for walking meditation, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
Years of weather and steady use had begun to wear down the walking path at Trinity’s labyrinth, despite the faithful care of parishioners. This spring, however, new life was breathed into the sacred space.
In April, preparations began with clearing overgrowth and mowing the pathways as low as possible. Then, in early May, students from the Mineral Point High School Key Club arrived as part of the club’s annual day of service for nonprofits and community organizations.
Under the guidance of Junior Warden Mark Prouty and the Rev. Christian Maxfield, the students undertook the labor-intensive work of revitalizing the labyrinth. Using a specialized brick-removal tool crafted by Prouty himself, the volunteers carefully lifted the border bricks, spread fresh sand beneath them, and reset and tamped them into place to create a clearer, more welcoming path.
The result is both practical and deeply symbolic: a renewed space for prayer, contemplation, and encounter with God.
Church leaders emphasize that the labyrinth is open to everyone — parishioners, community members, and travelers alike — who may be seeking a quiet place for reflection amid the busyness of daily life.
Those interested in learning more about the role of labyrinths in Christian spirituality can explore additional background through https://www.unspokenelements.com/blogs/hope/the-meaning-of-a-labyrinth-in-christianity.
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Matthew Payne is a member of Trinity, Mineral Point. Thank you, Matthew, for sharing this story and these photos, not to mention the joy of seeing the renewal of such a vibrant space!
