If you are looking for a special place to sooth your soul, look no further. Nestled between West Adams and Arlington, you will find a wonderful site in an unexpected location.
The Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens, a day retreat on the grounds of the Church of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness, offers people an escape from their daily busy environment. Yes, you can relax in nature without leaving the city of Los Angeles!
John-Roger, founder of the nondenominational Church of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness, established his teachings of Soul Transcendence in 1968. Today’s Spiritual Director is John Morton who has been a big part of the movement and regularly travels throughout the United States and the world to promote peace.
The building looks stately and well-kept with its grand entrance and historic lobby in this turn-of-the-century Italian Renaissance mansion. A wonderful tour of the interior of the building (a real treat) awaits you if you call for reservations. The previous owners have kept the interior design, authentic features, and the style of the mansion intact. All rooms have been restored to its original grandeur; a feast for the eye.
You certainly should try the ancient practice of labyrinth walking; with its hand-carved stones. Labyrinths have been in existence for hundreds of years as part of mystical and religious traditions and cultures throughout the world. The history of labyrinths is extensive and dates back to Greek mythology.
Although some guidebooks suggest that the mazes on cathedral floors served as substitutes for pilgrimage paths in the late 18th century, and pilgrims supposedly were following the maze on their knees while praying, no evidence supports the idea that labyrinths had such a purpose for early Christians. This particular labyrinth was designed after the labyrinth at the Chartres Cathedral in France, which was built circa 1220. It is made of travertine marble and each piece was laid by hand.
In this city that never sleeps, it's soothing to walk the stone passages and reconnect with your inner self. You will find temporary peace and quiet in the meditation. If you are not familiar with meditation, this is a good place to start.
The Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens - website reads: “The Labyrinth and Gardens are dedicated to Soul Transcendence, which is becoming aware of yourself as a Soul and as one with God, not as a theory but as a living reality.”
Further down, following the Zen fountains and softly flowing waters, you will enter a garden that leaves you speechless. You can rest amongst bamboo, flowering trees, a lily pond, and several fountains and wind chimes providing a soothing sound. Many species of flowers and succulents compliment the walk-ways. It is a safe place, a place to rejuvenate, reflect and pray.
The center also features evening and weekend classes focused on the teachings of the Spiritual Heart and Saturday events focused on meditation and walking the labyrinth as tools for spiritual awakening.
Enjoy guided tours of the labyrinth, gardens, and historic mansion. Historic and garden tours are available every Sunday from 12:00-4:00 PM.
Additional Visiting Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
Contact: (323) 737-4055
Location: 3500 W. Adams Blvd., Jefferson Park
Website: www.peacelabyrinth.org
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