Mandalas are circular paintings (‘mandala’ – emphasis on the first syllable – means ‘circle’ in Sanskrit).  The circle is a symbol of the unity of
all creation. Early examples of such circular designs are found in Celtic patterns, and here the patterns symbolise life that has no end, the love of God which has no beginning and no end, and our union with him.

Mandalas can be painted or drawn with a simple blend of colours, a simple drawing or of a most intricate design. Last Sunday we were encouraged to take away a mandala and to use it to reflect on our passage from 1 Corinthians. Here are the examples we gave:

These two mandalas, woven into Celtic knots, are inspired by 1 Corinthians 1.1-9, in particular, the words ‘called to be saints together with all those who, in every place, call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ’ (v.2). One of the images emphasises seeking and reaching out, from many different directions. The other gives a definite impression of calling out to, and being called by, a specific person: Jesus Christ.