Around the Diocese
Lenten Labyrinth
– Our Pilgrimage to Quairading
Mrs Diana Rice, St Paul’s, Woodlands-Wembley Downs
Around 45 parishioners from Anglicans Together in Scarborough, Woodlands and Wembley Downs, recently travelled together on a Lenten pilgrimage to the small Wheatbelt town of Quairading.
The visit was organised by The Revd Canon Linda Pilton and Father Steve Hilton and centred on walking the Labyrinth at St Faith’s Anglican Church and exploring the town. Quairading itself is a close-knit country community of about 500 people within a shire of roughly 1,000 residents.
Our journey paused unexpectedly when the bus overheated on the way up Greenmount and a replacement bus was called for. Yet, like many pilgrimages throughout history, a small interruption simply became part of the experience. The delay was taken in good spirits and provided an opportunity for pilgrims to chat, laugh, and get to know one another a little better before the day progressed.
Upon arrival in Quairading, we received a warm and generous welcome from The Revd Canon Dr Phillip Raymont and the parishioners of St Faith’s. They had prepared a wonderful morning tea of freshly baked scones with jam and cream - a classic country hospitality that was greatly appreciated by all in the 40 degree heat.
Following morning tea, we gathered in church for a short liturgy before being introduced to the Labyrinth. A series of Labyrinth cards were available, reminding us that the journey of faith - like the winding path of the Labyrinth - continues long after we return home.
Despite the intense sun, many pilgrims embraced the opportunity to walk the Labyrinth. As we slowly followed its winding path, conversation faded and a quiet rhythm emerged. With each step, the outside world seemed to soften as minds stilled and our hearts settled into a gentle sense of peace and reflection. The walk offered a simple yet powerful moment of contemplation, followed by the opportunity for silent prayer in St Faith’s.
Afterwards, we made our way to the Quairading Hotel for lunch and fellowship. We were introduced to some of the town’s history and gained valuable insight into the life and working of fat lamb farms in the area. It was a reminder of the dedication and resilience of small communities that continue to serve faithfully across the State and Diocese.
The afternoon concluded at the Quairading Museum, located in the town’s former railway station. Local residents kindly guided us through the exhibits, sharing stories that brought the town and its residents’ history vividly to life.
As we returned to Perth later that afternoon, the bus was noticeably quieter. Many pilgrims sat in reflective silence, grateful for the day’s experiences - the prayerful walking, the fellowship shared, and the generous hospitality of the Quairading community.
The pilgrimage offered not only a moment of spiritual reflection but also a deeper appreciation of the warmth, faith, and richness of this small rural parish.
The people of St Faith’s are always delighted to welcome visitors and church groups, please contact Church Warden, Mary Stacey (ulongingfarm@gmail.com) or parish priest, The Revd Canon Dr Philip Raymont, (revdphilipraymont@outlook.com). You won’t be disappointed. Our group returned home after a beautiful day, knowing that the spirit of the pilgrimage stays with us.
