For years, parishioners at Church of Our Saviour in Montpelier tried to come up with a mission statement. Nothing worked—until a recent vestry retreat, when they paid close attention to what they were passionate about, in a conversation guided by The Rev. Shirley Smith Graham, the Diocese of Virginia’s minister for congregational vitality.
When Abingdon Episcopal Church recently celebrated its 375 years, there was more looking forward than back. History was barely mentioned in a packed service February 23 where the Bishop of Virginia preached, and the focus was on the 14 people confirmed.
On March 1, 2025, at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Arlington, Virginia, The Rt. Rev. Gayle E. Harris ordained Kara Laughlin, Kris Rose, and Joy Warburton to the Sacred Order of Deacons. Bishop Harris presided over the service, and the sermon was given by the Rev. Dr. Judy Fentress-Williams.
In the interest of becoming a more welcoming and inclusive Parish, St. James’ (Leesburg) has recently completed a pew reconfiguration project to improve accessibility for all who enter their doors.
The Rev. Kevin Laskowski, a three-day champion on Jeopardy!, recently shared his inspiring journey of faith, intellect, and humanity during an interview with the Diocese of Virginia Comms Team.
On February 1, 2025, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Arlington, Virginia, hosted the ordination of the Rev. Rebecca Casey and the Rev. Caroline Mitchell to the Sacred Order of Priests in the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia. Bishop Mark Stevenson presided over the service, welcoming two women who had each followed a unique path to the priesthood.
The needs of Western North Carolina post Hurricane Helene stirred many to action, including many in the Northern Neck region (12 churches) of our Diocese.
I’ve spent all but four years of my life in Orange, and I love the town. Betsy and I raised our three children there. But my roots–my real roots–are in Rapidan.
This article shares the story of a vibrant, impactful ministry supported by a Bishop’s Appeal Grant. Make a contribution to the Bishop’s Appeal to support ministries like this. Donate to the Bishop’s Appeal In the heart of Charlottesville, Bread and Roses...
Launched with seed money from the Bishop’s Appeal, the Babies to Boomers Program at Emmanuel, Harrisonburg, was created to address the need for hygiene products expressed by Emmanuel’s Food Pantry clients.
