Kirkin' o' th' TartanReformation Sunday, October 26th
On Reformation Sunday, the last Sunday in October, First Presbyterian Church in downtown Salt Lake City holds a special Kirkin’O’Th’Tartan Worship Service to celebrate the Scottish heritage of the Presbyterian church. What does “Kirkin’ O’ Th’ Tartan” mean? A loose translation would be “blessing of the tartans” or “blessing of the families”. “Kirk” is the Scottish word for church and a “Tartan” is the plaid-patterned fabric, usually wool, that clans – or families – use to distinguish themselves from other clans. Essentially, tartans provide a visual link to clan identity and heritage. Kirkin’ O’Th’Tartan Worship Services have been held throughout North America since the early 1940’s, but the tradition is rooted in 18th Century Scottish faith and patriotism. It is said that when English conquerors banned the wearing of Tartan in 1745, some Scottish families began to carry swatches of the material concealed under their clothing into their church services. At some point in the service, when the minister gave a blessing, the clanspeople would touch their hidden bits of Tartan as a way to recommit themselves to their Lord and their Scottish heritage. Kirkin’ at 1st Presbyterian Church Salt Lake CityThere are two Kirkin’ services on Reformation Sunday, at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Plan to arrive early as parking in the area is rather limited. Wear whatever attire you are comfortable worshiping in -- all the better if you wear a kilt and sash! Each Kirkin’ worship service begins with a procession featuring the magnificent music of the Salt Lake Scots Bagpipe band. The Bible is carried in by the Beadle, a special office dating back to the Middle Ages when Bibles were rare and costly treasures. The chief duty of the Beadle was always to guard and protect the Bible. Young people called acolytes (from the Greek akolouthos, meaning followers/attendants) light candles to symbolize the light of Christ, a custom dating to the second century. Other young people carry banners from our Christian, Scottish and American heritages. Finally, represent-atives of Scots clans of the Salt Lake region come in bearing their tartans. The worship service is both stately and joyful, including special music by the Utah Scots and the 1st Presbyterian Church choir and a message for people of all heritages. A particular highlight is the blessing of the tartans. No matter how many clans are present, each clan receives a unique blessing, just as God has a special blessing for each person on earth. After the service, all are invited to enjoy social hour and treats in the fellowship hall. Please also make plans to enjoy our Ceilidh (pronounced KAY-lee; Celtic for “party”) on Saturday just before Reformation Sunday, with Celtic music, highland dancers, bake sale, and a raffle and silent auction. |
