W.J. Bell Rotary Peace Park
The W.J. Bell Rotary Peace Park opened in October 2015. The centrepiece of the new park is a stone labyrinth, designed as a “contemplative path” for walking meditation. This project was organized by the Rotary Club of Stittsville in partnership with the City of Ottawa's Neighbourhood Connections Office as part of the Better Neighbourhoods Program. This labyrinth is the first to be installed on public property in the City of Ottawa.
The Rotary Club undertook this effort to create an inclusive, non-denominational park space that provides an easy way for people to meditate and relax.
The walk will focus on the new labyrinth and why we consider it an important addition to our public space, as well as the meaning of the Peace Park.
Participants may roam along the trails of the park and also walk the labyrinth.
Reference: (
visit link)
A plaque on site informs that the land for this park was donated to the Township of Goulbourn in 1955 by (Merchant) William James Bell of the village of Stittsville. Initially named the W.J. Bell Memorial Park, this park was renamed as the W. J. Bell Rotary Peace Park by the City of Ottawa in 2017.
Inscription on two information panels located in the park:
1- Peace Without, Peace Within
W.J. Bell Peace Park provides multi sensory experiences through nature and art forms. The theme "Peace Without, Peace Within" encourages contemplation, meditation or simply appreciation. Friendship and reconciliation benches encourage harmony between individuals in our community and are places for coming together.
A place of beauty where all ages are welcome, it has several accessible paths for walkers, wheelchairs and strollers. Native plant and shrubs complement both treed areas and beautiful open spaces. Enjoy!
In collaboration with:
City of Ottawa, Better Neighbourhoods Program
Rotary Club of Ottawa-Stittsville
Special thanks to Stittsville residents,
Ward Councillor Shad Qadri and
Community groups who have
contributed to the Peace Park.
2- W.J. Bell Peace Park
Solvitur Ambulando... It is solved by walking
Augustine
Labyrinths are ancient spiritual tools used for over 4000 years in many countries and culture all over the world. Unlike a maze, it is a single path to the centre and back out. It's said that in a maze you lose yourself and in a labyrinth you discover yourself.
Before your first step, pause, breathe and give thanks as you walk to the centre, let go of tension, listen to your heart rate, be aware of your breathing and quiet your mind.
The centre is still the point, a place to stop and to listen, to reflect, pray and meditate. Stay as long as you wish. Walking out is a time to resolve, return with a renewed sense of understanding, strength, peace or possibility.
May you find light, hope and peace on your journey.
In collaboration with
City of Ottawa, Better Neighbourhoods Program
Rotary Club of Ottawa-Stittsville