Kirkin o' the Tartans

[Bob C]

Ironically, the closest thing in Scottish history to the Kirkin' service originated in the Lowlands, and not the Highlands -- outlawed Scottish Presbyterians known as Covenanters, supporters of the National Covenant and the Solemn League & Covenant, which basically stated that Scotland was a Presbyterian, Protestant nation, held secret outdoor services known as conventicles, with armed sentries patroling the perimeter for government dragoons.

The Cameronian Regiment, the only British Army regiment to be raised on religious principles (named for Covenanter leader Richard Cameron's sect) would post sentries at the four corners of the Kirk for Sunday church parade, and the Padre could not begin the service until an officer gave the "All Clear!"

As Matt said, most of the story of the Kirkin' that you hear in the US is pure myth. The real story, that of Rev. Marshall, is far more impressive, INMHO, and as Bob said, traditions have to begin somewhere -- why not make it a "Scottish-American Church Parade" rather than trying to drag Culloden and the '45 into it, when there is no such evidence for it?

Cheers,

Todd

I read about this in The Highlander magazine. The article I saw said that the commander would go to the sentry at each corner and each would report, "No redcoats in sight, sir!" After the four reports, the officer would go to the preacher and say, "No redcoats in sight. Begin the conventicle."

I don't vouch for the authenticity of the article. Just thought I'd tack on some info to what Todd posted.

[macwilkin]

I read about this in The Highlander magazine. The article I saw said that the commander would go to the sentry at each corner and each would report, "No redcoats in sight, sir!" After the four reports, the officer would go to the preacher and say, "No redcoats in sight. Begin the conventicle."

I don't vouch for the authenticity of the article. Just thought I'd tack on some info to what Todd posted.

Thanks, Bob -- do you remember which issue? I'd like to read what they have to say about the conventicles. Some of my family were Covenanting Presbyterians.

Cheers,

Todd

[Bob C]

I'll take a look when I get home, Todd. I save all of my back issues of that magazine.

[Anne Macpherson]

Jim, thanks so much you are absolutely correct in your quotation and our service, held on Sunday Morning of Celebration of Celts is beautiful and very moving, we add a verteran's portion to it to heal their hearts as well as to remember the flowers of the forest who have gone before us. Slainte, Annie