Why join us? Shrine Mont is the home of the Cathedral Shrine of the Transfiguration — the open-air cathedral of the Diocese of Virginia. It is “a place where people give thanks to God for his creation — from the beauty of the streams, flowers and wildlife which are at home here, to the people who come to this place to celebrate being part of the family of God.” Emmanuel’s annual parish weekend at Shrine Mont is designed to bring us together for fellowship, recreation, reflection, worship and song.
Anyone who wants to relax and share fellowship in a beautiful setting should come! Shrine Mont is a special place for all people - individuals, couples and families. Meals are included and everything is taken care of; you can do as much or as little as you desire. The slow pace, beautiful surroundings, and free time provide an opportunity for new and longtime members to connect and reconnect.
What will I do while I am there? You can take part in as many (or as few!) activities as you’d like! You can bike, hike, swim, or sit on the porch and enjoy the view. There are intergenerational games and prayer boats set to float at evening Compline. There will be an informal meeting with J.T. as well as Sunday morning worship at the outdoor cathedral, where God’s presence can easily be felt. The Shenandoah Music Festival takes place on both Friday (The Bacon Brothers) and Saturday (Shenandoah) evenings. You can buy tickets but most of us listen from the porch.
Activities designed for children are part of the program! Many kids bring bikes or scooters (remember to bring helmets!) to enjoy on the low traffic roads. Older kids enjoy exploring the property with a freedom they often don’t have at home.
For the weekend, Emmanuel occupies a large gathering room, called the Ladies’ Parlor, on the 2nd floor of the main building (the Virginia House). Parishioners stay in several nearby cottages as well as rooms in the Maryland House. Each couple has a private room with simply-made twin beds and a fan. Bathrooms are private or two rooms share one in the hall. Meals are buffet style in a large dining hall in Virginia House. For more information, see the Shrine Mont website at www.shrinemont.com.
What should I bring? Bring your friends and family! Attendees often bring folding chairs, flashlight, sweatshirt, rain gear, extra fan, water bottle, games, favorite pillow, extra towels, pool towels, sports equipment, lawn games to share, sturdy shoes and a smile. Cell service is minimal. Wifi is available in the Virginia House lobby. Bring your own beverages to enjoy in your room or to share. We will have coolers in the Ladies’ Parlor to keep drinks cold.
Do not bring pets, radios, boom boxes, squirt guns, or water balloons. Skateboards and roller blades are not permitted. Fireworks, firearms and smoking are also not allowed at Shrine Mont.
How do I get there? The trip is about 1½ hours by car and directions will be provided when you register. We will do our best to arrange shared rides if you don’t want to drive yourself.
How do I sign up? Return the form to the church office with payment to Emmanuel Episcopal Church (check memo: Shrine Mont) or by mail (P.O. Box 38, Greenwood, VA 22943) or email [email protected]. You will receive an email acknowledgement when your form is received. In August we will send directions, schedule, and other information.
Launching of the prayer boats is an annual tradition.
Registration and Rates Make checks payable to Emmanuel Episcopal Church with Shrine Mont in the memo. Return the form and payment to church or the church office as noted on the form. For ease of accounting, please pay by check or cash at the office. To pay online by credit card, use this link.
Rates Full weekend rates are per person and include two nights lodging and six meals, access to pool, trails, and all on-site activities. There is a $550 maximum fee per family for the weekend. We welcome friends and guests, but do not include them in the family maximum. Please add them at per person rate.
Fees Per Person Adults (sharing a room): $210 each Full Weekend / One Night: $105 Adult (single room): $240 each Full Weekend / One Night: $120 Children (ages 4-13): $145 each Full Weekend/ One Night: $73 There is a $550 maximum per family. All fees are subsidized by fundraising to keep costs down.
Day visitors are welcome as well! ( Daytime visitors' costs reflect the number of meals eaten while there: Breakfast $18.00 Lunch $20.00 Dinner $23.00.)
If you wish to receive financial assistance, see our rector, The Rev. John T. Thomas or email [email protected].