Two University towns in northern Indiana host five lovely labyrinths. In South Bend, home of Notre Dame University and Valparaiso home to Valparaiso University both just off busy I-80 pilgrims will easily find these exquisite, cared for labyrinths.
Ironwood Road in South Bend bisects I-80 and the labyrinths bookend the intersection. Clay Church sits on a sprawling campus with a pond, gardens and a welcoming curved path leading to the medieval style labyirnth. Engraved bricks with inspirational sayings and dedications to people sprinkle the paved path. Lilies embrace the labyrinth. Even on a warm morning, the walk was satisfying.
Saint Thérèse Little Flower Church south of I-80 on Ironwood is well named! Flowers adorn the property and the labyrinth, just off the parking lot, is secluded yet accessible. The entry stunning and inviting. Late summer the masses of golden Black-eyed Susans beckon.
Wandering into Valparaiso, IN, was a welcome respite from the pounding vibrations of I-80 and the driving rain that was part of the flooding in the southern United States. Valaparaiso University Chapel towers about the unique design by Robert Ferre and John Unrath. The skills of builder Marty Kermeen inspire awe. From The Labyrinth Locator website, “Unique design with cross shape at center, gardens interspersed between pathway, “I AM” theme based on Jesus’ “I AM” statements.” The appeal has many facets: the walk itself in a sacred place, the construction, the setting, and the history of the univsersity.
On the north side of campus nestled behind the low set Lutheran Deaconess Association building is a charming classical labyirnth surrounded by ornamental grasses and shaded by evergreens. Herbs flow from selected areas. Charming.
The medieval Chartres design at the First United Methodist Church of Valparaiso was indeed a find! We drove past it because it is sheltered from the road by a hedge. But, once we learned its location, we were enchanted. In spite of being downtown, it is quiet. Accessible. Comfortable to walk. Well maintained.
Enjoy the photos and stop by when you are passing through northern Indiana.
1080 Labyrinth 