The outdoor cathedral at Shrine Mont is a special place. This is in the mountain town of Orkney Springs, a short distance from Bryce Resort.
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| Plaque at Shrine Mont Honors the Woodwards |
Recently, I learned of a connection between this stone shrine and the church in The Plains where I enjoy an annual art show. Upstairs at the church was a small collection of prints, including some of Shrine Mont. A booklet explained that collection was handed down from Rev. Dr. Edmond Lee Woodward, who spearheaded the construction of Grace Church of The Plains in 1918. After he served as rector of Grace Church, he went on to create Shrine Mont in Shenandoah County.
Although both churches are built of locally dug stone, Grace Church was designed in 13th century English Gothic style, and Shrine Mont’s cathedral is so rustic it almost appears to have sprung out of the mountain.
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| Grace Episcopal Church in The Plains |
I was rather startled by the connection because these churches are over 70 miles apart, and it would’ve been quite a journey 100 years ago. Today I read that Rev. Woodward’s wife, Frances Gibson, was the daughter of the Episcopal Bishop of Virginia, who owned a cottage in Orkney Springs and held services in the town. The Shrine is still owned by the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia.
It’s an almost magical place, a peaceful setting among the trees.
The shrine looks most incredible in deed
ReplyDeleteThe trees are inspiration enough for me. I don’t need a shrine.
ReplyDeleteIt is a beautiful shrine, a lovely place.
ReplyDeleteTake care, have a great day and a happy week ahead.
...a inspirational place.
ReplyDeleteVery nice shadows, thank you for sharing! What a lovely spot for an art show.
ReplyDelete