Memorial Day Church Service at International Mother's Day Shrine

Spend Memorial Day weekend at the International Mother’s Day Shrine in downtown Grafton, where local heritage meets national remembrance during the West Virginia Memorial Day Committee Church Service. Set inside a National Historic Landmark, the historic sanctuary frames the morning with Romanesque architecture, original pews, and stained glass that lends a quiet gravity to the occasion.

The service typically begins at 10:00 AM on Sunday morning. You can expect a traditional program that often includes candle lighting by members of the American Legion Taylor County Post 12, along with musical selections performed on the shrine’s pipe organ. The tone is respectful and community oriented, welcoming visitors who want a reflective start to the holiday.

Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes early to secure seating, and bring a light jacket since the stone and brick interior can stay cool even in late May. Admission is free, street parking is available along Main Street but fills quickly, and wheelchair access is provided via a dedicated entrance.

After the program, you are well positioned to continue through North-Central West Virginia, from nearby Tygart Lake to the mountain roads of Taylor County. For an easy base, consider lodging near Tygart Lake State Park, or look at regional vacation rentals and cabin stays through Lake.com in the Grafton and Fairmont areas. Most attendees dress in business casual, the service is held indoors so rain does not affect plans, and only service animals are permitted inside the sanctuary.