Labyrinths For Global Healing, Landscapes For The Soul, was the theme for the 2013 Gathering at Tigh-Na-Mara Spa Resort on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, in September.  A popular pre-gathering activity was the pilgrimage that began in Victoria, and continued through South Island and Cowichan Valley. Along the way we visited labyrinths, enjoyed speakers, group discussions and local musicians; building a community that carried on our connection throughout the gathering.  Other pre-gathering offerings included Tai Chi, toning and labyrinth design for landscapes. The mayor of Parksville joined us for our Opening Ceremonies as we gathered at Parksville Community Labyrinth. We spent a beautiful fall weekend enjoying our surroundings as they supported us on a path of global healing. We were blessed by the flow of the tides and inspiration at the beach near Tigh-Na-Mara, which allowed for the most incredible temporary sand labyrinths that were created by participants each day.

As in years past, concurrent workshops and Poster Presentations opened our spirits to explore the vast mission of the labyrinth through sharing new stories, insights and lessons. New this year were Sharing Circles, brought forth with the intention of facilitating respect for personal stories, authentic conversations, and collective wisdom; the practice was well received. The silent auction and vendor area provided shopping and dreaming diversions. One of the highlights was the dozens of wooden finger labyrinth creations on display throughout the gathering in the registration area. These intricate pieces were made by Ben Godden, and were a small part of the incredible collection he has produced.

On Thursday evening we listened to Carol Matthews, keynote speaker, as she presented The Metaphor of the Labyrinth: Healing and Transformation. She spoke of the ways the juxtaposition of labyrinth and maze can offer healing, both on a personal and global landscape. She also shared the complex metaphor that is the labyrinth and introduced Ariadne’s Labyrinth Song. The song was co-written by Rick Scott, who performed the piece throughout the gathering.  On Friday evening, we were lead by Jean Shinoda Bolen, M.D. who shared with us her experience with the archetype and reality of the labyrinth and how she uses the labyrinth in her work as a Jungian analyst and a global activist. We started a new tradition on Friday evening, called the Ceremony of Remembrance and Celebration of Life, as we gathered together to remember those members that have passed on.  For those who stayed to enjoy the Island, there were post-Gathering bus tours.  We are looking forward to meeting again for the 2014 gathering on the coast of a different ocean in beautiful Delray Beach, Florida.