Looking for something fun to do Thanksgiving Day in Central Virginia? Join us at Grace Episcopal Church, 5607 Gordonsville Road, Keswick, Virginia 22947 for the Blessing of the Hounds! The service starts at 10:00 AM so plan to arrive by 9:30 to park and make your way to the service.
Grace Church dates from Virginia’s Colonial past when it was one of six churches in the Colony of Virginia. Constructed in 1745 with a second building consecrated in 1855 the church burned in 1895. Rebuilt and consecrated in 1896 the current church fits well into the Piedmont of Virginia. Arrive early and take a tour of the church, since the Blessing of the Hounds will be held outside!
I didn’t attend Grace Church’s first Blessing of the Hounds in 1929 but have attend in the rain, snow flurries, and on warm sunny Thanksgivings. Don’t let the weather keep you away from this unique Albemarle County event. The service goes across the ocean to eight century France and St. Hubert, the patron saint of hunters. The current service mounted foxhunters accompanied by hounds with prayers for protection and blessing along with thanksgiving for the recent harvest. Overall it is an unique outdoor service steeped in history.
I hope to see you at the Blessing of the Hounds. If you have questions or know of other interesting events in Central Virginia, let’s talk (james@VirgniaHomesFarmsLand.com or 434.466.4663)!