The oldest Episcopal Church in Virginia Beach, the Old Donation Church is devoted to spreading the word of God and encourages theological discussion while also bringing the community together in a sense of peace and goodwill.
You can visit the Church every Sunday morning at 8 am for the Holy Eucharist Rite services and participate in a traditional Episcopal service which features the renowned choir. You can also visit the church on Thursdays at 10 am for the Healing Eucharist Service. The sermons conducted here revolve around relevant social themes and generally discuss the lives of the Saints and how their teachings can be incorporated in everyday life. On every second Sunday of the month, the Church conducts a unique service called Paws, Prayers and Praise, where you can bring your pet along to prayer at the church. Children can participate in the Sunday school sessions which begin at 9.30 in the morning. They can even learn about the teachings of the ancient scriptures while listening to Bible stories which are narrated with the use of figurines. The church uses a unique system called Godly play which encourages children to ask questions and fills them with a sense of wonder about the relationship they share with God.
Older children are invited to participate in the Rite-13 which celebrates them stepping into the thirteenth year of their lives. Participants are also taken on a mini-pilgrimage to Nightwatch at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine which is located in New York. The Clergy also offers Newcomers Classes for those looking to learn more about the Episcopal faith which are held at 9.30 am on Sundays at the Library. Worshipers can also view reputed choirs from around the world during the Parks Memorial Fine Arts Series concerts. These concerts are open to all and do no charge an admittance fee. The Church also conducts several events through the year like the annual Old Donation Oyster Roast, which draws visitors from all over the country. This series is concluded with an intimate wine and cheese reception in the Parish hall.
The Church Building bears a legendary history with the first services held at the Adam Thorouhgood House. The present day church building was built in 1912 after the previous building was ravaged by a forest fire.
The church also conducts private worship from 7.30 am to 3.30 pm, Monday through Friday. For further information, you can refer to the website http://www.olddonation.org or call the Old Donation Episcopal Church at (757) 497-0563.
