Grounds

LABYRINTH: The Labyrinth is an archetype, a divine imprint, found in all religious traditions in various forms around the world. By walking our replica of the Chartres Labyrinth, laid in the floor of Chartres Cathedral around 1220, you are rediscovering a long-forgotten mystical tradition that is insisting to be reborn. Walking the labyrinth is an ancient spiritual act and a physical meditation that is being rediscovered during our time.  A labyrinth is an ancient circular diagram. It consists of a single concentric circular path with no possibility of going astray. The path winds throughout and becomes a mirror for where we are in our lives; it touches our sorrows and releases our joys. So walk it with an open mind and an open heart. Anyone from any tradition or spiritual path can walk into the labyrinth and benefit, through reflecting in the present moment.


Port Scansjpeg_Page_01COSMIC WALK:   “Our culture needs a “new story” to guide us into a less destructive ecological age.  Such a story integrates the scientific account of the emergence of the universe with an understanding of its inherent sacredness. The stations of the cosmos tell us such a story by way of a meditative walk”   Thomas Berry
The Cosmic Walk is a walking meditation that offers us a glimpse into our sacred origins. While there are many creation stories, this one is an attempt to connect the work of scientists from around the world with the on-going spiritual search we have to better understand who we are and how we came to be. It is the unfolding story of the universe, the story of life on earth, and the story of our personal history as a human community. This time of prayer is an invitation to enter into the mystery of creation that has been at work for thirteen billion years, and to help you experience the awe and wonder of life as you know it today.  You are invited to experience this inspiring meditative walk located in the very center of our property. The walk is comprised of 27 stations. The stations are the original art work of Corlita Bonnarens, RSM


IMG_2534WALKING PATHS/WOODSPaved paths wind throughout the property.  Unpaved paths lead you through the woods to Hickory Creek where you can spend time near the water and you may be joined by a deer or two depending on the time of day.   The Woods are home to raccoons, squirrels, birds, and chipmunks.  Each season has its own beauty whether it be snow covered trees, spring flowers, scarlet leaves, or bubbling water you will find peace in this beautiful natural setting.


2005_0425Image0052creek3_smallHICKORY CREEKThe south side of our property is bordered by Hickory Creek.  Hickory Creek is part of over 100 miles of streams that meander from Tinley Park to Joliet.  The Hickory Creek watershed was formed by glaciers over 12,000 years ago.  Each year a mother duck hatches her baby ducklings in the courtyard of the Mother House.  Once they are old enough she proudly leads them to Hickory Creek.  It is quite a parade.