Testimonials

“In 2017, I was pregnant, tired, and overdue with my second son. Anne set up a labyrinth in my yard and as my first son ran and laughed alongside me, I walked the labyrinth and gave grace to my tired body. The next day, with a loosened body, full of grace, I delivered my son, Ollie, into this world. Thanks be to God for Ollie’s little life and thanks be to Anne for helping pave the way for his entrance through her labyrinth facilitation.” -Abby P. 

“I am so grateful for the many years we have had Anne and Encircled Grace working with the Middleton Counseling Center as part of our mind-body-spirit holistic approach to living well. Since 2016, I have been able to witness Anne’s intentional programming and her ability to create not only an experience, but an ongoing community of those who come to walk, listen, and attune to the still small quiet voice. Anne is gifted in hospitality and openness. She welcomes all, guides gently, allows individuals to have the experience they need without controlling outcomes. Anne has the ability to hold sacred space and is a quiet, sure presence filled with care and respect for all those who come seeking. She is appropriate, trusted, mature, wise, intentional, protects confidences, supports through listening, maintains healthy boundaries, and is deeply faithful in the offering of the labyrinth.” -Kiki McKendrick, Middleton Counseling Center, Director

"As the world -- and my own village -- slowly, cautiously emerged in different ways from the worst of the pandemic, I sought what I thought, at first, to be a new set of priorities: work-life balance, mental health, spiritual enrichment. What I realized, courtesy of Encircled Grace, is that I was returning to first principles: a set of core but oft neglected values like family, friends, and God. Thanks to Anne, who appeared like an angel in humble human form, I honed my focus, my understanding, and my habits. She is a gentle, wise, patient, and enthusiastic facilitator! Drawing from travels, years of experiences, literary resources, a warm disposition, and fierce dedication, Anne really helps. She motivates, challenges, queries, and affirms -- with a charming, witty presence. I recommend Encircled Grace as a comforting, non-judgmental, and totally accessible resource for anyone on the journey of faith or discovery. Enter as you are, leave as you're meant to be. For me, the Labyrinth always offers something different. I love the synthesis of thought and action; of letting the Spirit move from the thoughts in my head through the emotions of my heart and down to the steps of my feet. Encircled Grace enables me to live more fully, authentically, and purposefully. Thank you, Anne, for enveloping me with grace." -Seth P.

“Walking, breathing, praying...the labyrinth offered through Encircled Grace has helped me restore my spirit. It has opened a space, a place and time - a way ~ for me to embrace my Life in the present moment, acknowledging the challenges and the pain. The practice has nurtured an inner peace of deep gratitude, humility and a renewed trust in my faith in God and the universe.” -Ellie F.

“Seeking refuge in this time of uncertainty? Anne has created the most loving, inclusive, judgment free space in which to be, learn, and explore through Encircled Grace. The labyrinth is a vehicle for reflection, meditation, and learning about self. I have had the opportunity to walk many of Anne's labyrinths. Each one has its own magic and mystery and healing properties. They all have one thing in common. They are set with intention, filled with loving kindness by Anne. Every detail is considered. The welcoming into the space, the space itself, the lighting, and details you won't think of until days later. I've walked her stunning candlelit labyrinths, small chapel labyrinths, and outdoor nature labyrinths. Each one has its own special feel and flair. All remain sacred and healing. If you are considering walking a labyrinth with Encircled Grace or hiring Anne to host a labyrinth at your site, I promise you will be grateful you chose to do so. Encircled Grace was created by Anne out of love and she has given us each a gift of love through it. This love surrounds us and is within us as we walk the labyrinth.” -Alicia K.

“A labyrinth path moment given to two loving friends. It was a miraculous experience where their meaningful moments of joy and love soared. They were so grateful this was given to them by Encircled Grace.” -Hannah L.

“In 1995, I became a dedicated labyrinth walker and found direction for the turning points of my life. In 2010, I relocated to the Philadelphia area and served as a volunteer facilitator for a local labyrinth.  Anne Montgomery Schmid was a consistent walker there and emerged as one ready for more training and leadership. In 2014, she became a Certified Labyrinth Facilitator.  Her training is ongoing as she continues to seek the best preparation for the walks she leads. In 2021, Anne became the Founder of Encircled Grace.  Contact Anne to explore what she can offer to you or your organization through planning and presentation.  All walks are individualized and preparation is collaborative with those requesting her services.”  -Janet B.