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KIRKIN O THE TARTAN

We gather to offer a blessing for the families and to recognize our Scottish heritage and roots

The Kirkin’ O’ the Tartan is an ancient Scottish ceremony where clans annually rededicate their families to God. The ceremony began in the United Stated during the early years of World War II, when Peter Marshall, a member of the St. Andrew’s Society, preached in support of the British War Relief and the Scottish Clans Evacuation Plan. His sermons were so popular they were published, with proceeds from the sales designated for war relief programs. When asked for a title to his May 2, 1943  sermon, Marshall suggested the name, “Kirkin O’ the Tartan.” It was the same time the St. Andrew’s Society began holding prayer services for the many subjects of the British Isles. The services continued in the Washington area, became known as “The Kirkin'” and caught the interest of Scottish groups that started celebrating it throughout the country. Today, thousands join annually to witness the heritage of Scottish Christianity.