House Joint Resolution 509 is a commemorative resolution honoring Shrine Mont, a conference and retreat center in Orkney Springs, Virginia, on its 100th anniversary. The resolution recounts the organization’s history, including the founding of the Cathedral Shrine of the Transfiguration and Shrine Mont in 1925 by the Rev. Dr. Edmund Lee Woodward, the later addition of Art Hall, and the Moomaw family’s long leadership role in the center’s development and preservation efforts.
The resolution highlights Shrine Mont’s role as a nonprofit institution that supports the Episcopal Church, historic preservation, cultural education, and community life in Shenandoah County and the broader Commonwealth. It notes that the center serves about 15,000 guests annually through retreats, conferences, youth camps, workshops, music festivals, and family reunions, and formally expresses the General Assembly’s admiration and best wishes for its future.
Impact
HJR509 does not change state law, create new regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds. Its effect is purely ceremonial: it places the General Assembly’s official recognition on the record and directs the Clerk of the House of Delegates to present a copy of the resolution to Shrine Mont representatives. The resolution may be useful as a public acknowledgment of the organization’s historical, cultural, and community contributions, but it has no direct legal impact on statutes, agencies, or private parties.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and unanimous in tone. The bill was agreed to by both chambers without recorded opposition in the provided materials, and the language of the resolution is entirely commendatory. It frames Shrine Mont as a valued community institution with a century of service, emphasizing appreciation, admiration, and best wishes rather than any policy debate.
Contention
There is no notable policy contention in the available record because the measure is a ceremonial commendation rather than substantive legislation. The only substantive themes are historical recognition, preservation of a religious and cultural institution, and its role in the Shenandoah Valley community. Any discussion would likely center on the appropriateness of honoring Shrine Mont’s legacy and contributions, but no opposing viewpoints or disputes are reflected in the bill text, votes, or committee materials provided.