Special Events
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Shrine Mont All-Parish Retreat
September 10 - September 12
In-Person with Virtual Options
Fun activities for all ages: hiking, capture the flag, Family Feud, ice cream social
First-Timers Get 25% Off
Financial Aid Available
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the rising concern and the increased infection rate of COVID-19 and the Delta variant, and for the safety of attendees as well as Shrine Mont staff, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test (within 48 hours) will be required of adults and youth 12 and older. Masks will be required for indoor activities and not for outdoor activities. Most activities will be outdoors where we can gather to enjoy fellowship in the natural beauty of Shenandoah Valley.
After a challenging year, please join us at the Shrine Mont Diocesan Conference Center in Orkney Springs, Virginia for this time of sharing, socializing, and play.
Drop off your registration form and payment to the Church Office. Or pay online. (Select “Shrine Mont 2021” from the Fund dropdown menu)
This retreat is for ALL AGES! This year our theme will be “Tools for Thriving” and our retreat leader will be Dr. Elaine A. Heath, theologian and former Dean of Duke Divinity School. We’ll explore tools for living fully into an abundant life, even when faced with difficulty.
What is Shrine Mont?
Shrine Mont is a conference and retreat center and the home of the Cathedral Shrine of the Transfiguration—the cathedral of the Diocese of Virginia. Enjoy meeting spaces, rustic yet comfortable cabins, family-style meals, and nature. There’s no traffic, no noise, and minimal cell phone reception.
The property features hiking trails for various skill levels; tennis courts; large fields for soccer, capture the flag, volleyball, softball; and plenty of porches with rocking chairs for visiting with each other, knitting, reflecting, strumming guitar and more.
What do we do there?
Shrine Mont All-Parish RetreatShrine Mont is a great place to connect and reconnect with your fellow parishioners, and it’s a lovely spot to deepen your relationship with God. Holy Comforter’s annual All-Parish Retreat is designed to bring us together through reflection, worship, fellowship, recreation, and family-style meals—all in a setting featuring wildlife, fresh air, blue skies, springs, and friendly people.
In addition to our planned program, you can participate in indoor activities like yoga or outdoor activities such as hiking and softball—parade up the hill with our band!
Who Should Come to Shrine Mont?
Shrine Mont is a special place for all people–individuals, couples, and families. It is a restful place apart from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Once you arrive, everything is taken care of, and you can do as much or as little as you desire. While 2021 schedule planning is currently underway, here’s what typically happens:
Friday Late Afternoon or Evening: After check-in, there is sometimes a speaker or general announcements, and lots of informal gatherings on porches in the evening (bring your own beverage and snacks to share).
Saturday Late Morning: During the adult program, there are staff-supervised kids’ and youth activities. After lunch, various leisure activities are available: hikes, tennis, reading, napping, conversation. Saturday evening activities bring everyone together.
Sunday Morning: Worship service (causal dress) is held at the outdoor cathedral, a natural setting where God’s presence can easily be felt and the Holy Comforter band provides the music.
Join the Shrine Mont Band!
If you are attending the Parish Retreat and you play an instrument, we want you to help with the music at the worship service! Any instrument is welcome, but guitars are particularly appreciated. If you’re interested in participating, please contact Minister of Music, Dr. David Kelley.