This tradition is inextricably linked to the St. Andrew’s Society of Washington, DC, and has spread from humble origins as a 1941 fundraiser for British war relief to the point where Kirkin’ services are now celebrated throughout the U.S. and Canada. The service, complete with the Pipe & Drums, now raises funds to support scholarships awarded by the Society annually to U.S. or Scottish students.
The Washington St. Andrew’s Society has conducted the Kirkin’ Service at the National Cathedral, uninterrupted, since 1952 when it was moved there from several other churches in the DC area. The massed Pipes, Drums, & Color Guard will lead the Tartan Bearers & Society Members into the Cathedral Nave at 4:00 PM for the start of the service.
Upon conclusion of the remarks by the guest Chaplain, the entire massed Pipes & Drums march to the High Altar with Society Members for the “Blessing of the Tartans”, Remembrance of Departed Comrades, and Benediction. All attendees are invited to watch an open air performance of the Pipes, Drums, and Dancers of the Society on the south side of the Cathedral immediately after the service.
3:30 PM– All guests must take their seats in either the general congregation area or in reserved seats in the Front Nave or Great Choir (see reservation instructions below.)
3:45 PM – Society Members (preferably in kilts) will line up behind the Color Guard and Pipes & Drums for the Procession. (See instructions, below.)
4:00 PM– Procession and service commences.
5:00 PM– Pipes & Drums and Scottish Highland Dancing concert
6:00 PM – Dinner with the Society
The National Kirkin’ O’ The Tartan Service is free of charge (although contributions to the offertory are welcome) and no R.S.V.P. is necessary but guests should plan on arriving early to secure seating for this popular worship service.
Reserved seating in the National Cathedral is available for this service in reserved areas. Reservations are free to all Members and Guests and they may be obtained from the Society’s Sergeant-at-Arms and Kirkin’ Chairman David S. McKenzie. For seating , please e-mail the Chairman at caberman162 -at- yahoo -dot- com.
This year, the Society will gather for dinner at 6:00 PM at a location to be determined.