House opens session with invocation, welcomes advocacy groups and adopts local commemorative resolutions

RICHMOND — The Virginia House of Delegates opened its Feb. 5 sitting with an invocation and a series of ceremonial recognitions before moving to legislative business.

Pastor Adam Schultz of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Lexington, gave the invocation, which included explicit references to supporting marginalized and vulnerable groups. Delegate McLaughlin introduced Pastor Schultz and asked members to welcome him.

Across the morning the House recognized a range of guests and advocacy groups in the gallery: members of the ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation on Childhood Cancer Advocacy Day, visitors from Hampden‑Sydney College celebrating the institution’s 250th anniversary, the Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV), Boys & Girls Club representatives and local chambers of commerce.

The chamber also adopted several memorial and commendation resolutions. Members unanimously agreed to adopt a resolution commending Hampden‑Sydney College and later agreed to adjourn in memory of Rebecca Coggin Hubert and former Delegate Charlie Poindexter following floor remarks about their public service.

These ceremonial recognitions preceded the day’s legislative calendar and roll calls. The House recessed for a mid‑day break and announced committee meeting schedules before adjourning to reconvene the next day at 11 a.m.