Virginia Richmond Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

Richmond's culture is a rich tapestry of historical significance and modern innovation. The city's culinary scene features local favorites like Southern cuisine and barbecue. Music and arts thrive in Richmond, with performances at the Carpenter Theatre and exhibits at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Historical sites such as the American Civil War Museum offer insights into the region's past, particularly its role in the Civil War. Richmond was the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War, and its history is deeply intertwined with this period. The city's cultural fabric is woven with a strong sense of community, historical pride, and a forward-looking spirit.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region features a mix of urban landscapes, rolling hills, and river valleys, with natural landmarks such as the James River and the nearby Shenandoah National Park, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

CLIMATE

The climate is humid subtropical with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures average around 88°F, while winter temperatures average around 30°F. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken are English and Spanish.

RELIGIONS

Major religions in the region include Roman Catholicism, Baptist, and Methodist.

INDUSTRIES

Finance: The area supports a robust financial sector with major employers like Capital One excelling in banking and financial services.

Technology: The region has a growing technology sector with companies like CarMax excelling in IT solutions and services.

Manufacturing: The area has a strong manufacturing industry with companies like Altria leading in tobacco products and other manufacturing activities.

LOCAL EVENTS

The area hosts events like the 2nd Street Festival, celebrating local culture and history; the Richmond Folk Festival, showcasing music and dance; and the Richmond Raceway, featuring NASCAR races and motorsport events.

TOURISM

Popular tourist destinations include the Virginia War Memorial, known for its historical exhibits; the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, featuring diverse art collections; and the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, offering extensive gardens and plant exhibits.

RECREATION

Favored activities include hiking, kayaking, and biking, with major parks like Pocahontas State Park and James River Park System being popular destinations.

MISSION HISTORY

Jedediah M. Grant, an early missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was highly demanded in Virginia. He received three speaking invitations for every one he could fill in the 1840s. His listeners gave him a horse, clothing, and funds to assist his future preaching assignments. In 1841, there were some 80 members of the Church in Virginia. After Grant and his brother left the state in 1842, another missionary, R.H. Kinnamon, traveled to nine counties and baptized more than 100 people.

When Church President Joseph Smith was killed by mobs in 1844, Church membership in Virginia was likely more than 350. Many of these early members migrated west.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

Virginia Richmond Mission Alumni Facebook Group

Richmond Mission President Wilson 2013-16 Group

Richmond Mission Perry Generation Group

Richmond Mission Presidents Feller/Tanner Group

Richmond Mission President Mark B. Millburn Group

Richmond Alumni President Spencer F. Kirk Group

Richmond Mission Moms and Friends (LDS) Group

Virginia Richmond Mission Facebook Group

Virginia Richmond Mission – President Brown Group

LDS Richmond Mission Google Plus Community

Richmond Mission President Allen Feller Group

Richmond 2001-04 President H. Trent Tanner Group