Swithun’s Nest
– Spirituality in the Hills

Introducing the new Spirituality centre in the Anglican Parish of Kalamunda-Lesmurdie

In the hall at St Swithun’s Lesmurdie, especially in the morning, you can stand at the picture window (overlooking a small but perfect patch of bushland) and watch the birds flitting to and fro in the trees. Their chirps transport you to a place far from the busy-ness of daily life. If you are especially blessed, you might catch a glimpse of the Square Tailed Kite flying high above. Then there is the rustle of a yet-to-be identified creature living the nearby bush – just on the other side of the patio (an echidna, or perhaps a quenda?).

The hall sits proud at the back of the church block, and when inside one feels separate and safe, cosy and quiet. This is a perfect place to sit with God.

This is Swithun’s Nest, a new centre for spirituality, and it is growing into a place of connection and contemplation, a place where spirituality can be learned, shared and practised.

Swithun’s Nest hatched out of a dream to share this place of nature and divine connection with the greater community. The people of the Parish of Kalamunda-Lesmurdie have decided to follow the example of St Swithun, who built bridges to provide access to community and church, and who miraculously restored and gifted eggs to those in need of sustenance.

Swithun’s Nest has begun its offerings with Contemplative Prayer and Meditation on Thursday mornings at 9.00am.

In March the first presentation will be offered – The Revd Grahame Bowland presenting Church and Culture: Retying the Bond on Saturday 14 March from 2.00pm-4.00pm.

Other events will be offered during the year, including a presentation by The Revd Bec Bydder (Director of Spirituality at St George’s Cathedral) on Julian of Norwich.

Swithun’s Nest will become a learning hub for the Wollaston Certificate in May, and soon the hall will be ready to welcome organisations and groups for quiet days and retreats.

If you would like to attend one of our events, or if you’d like to get involved, or explore being one of the first to book the Nest, please email The Revd Grahame Bowland at frgrahame@bowland.au, or visit the website: kalamundaanglicans.org.au/nest/

Published in Messenger March 2026