Bagpipes filled First Presbyterian Church in Jackson on Sunday morning as the congregation marked 25 years of its Kirkin of the Tartans service, a worship tradition rooted in Scottish heritage and faith, WBBJ reported.
The City of Memphis pipe band provided the music. During the service, the congregation took time to honor the history of the Reformation, bless family tartans and remember loved ones who died in the past year. After worship, a brunch gave members and guests a chance to continue the fellowship.
What the name means
The two Scottish words in the title are worth explaining. A kirk is the Scottish word for a church. A tartan is a distinctive woven pattern that has long been used to represent a particular family or clan. In a Kirkin, families bring their tartans, and the congregation asks God's blessing on those families, on the church and on the heritage that shaped them.
According to WBBJ's report, the Kirkin service began in the United States during World War II. It was created as a symbolic way for congregations to ask for a blessing over their families, their church and their heritage.
A bridge between generations
The tradition started as a way to celebrate family clans, but WBBJ reports that for members in Jackson it has also become an annual bridge. It honors those who came before them and passes traditions on to the next generation. Remembering the congregation members who died in the last year was part of the service, tying the celebration of heritage to the life of the church today.
A quarter century in Jackson
Reaching 25 years means the Jackson congregation has held the service every year since 2001. WBBJ's coverage did not detail how the first Kirkin in Jackson came about, but described the milestone as a tradition that continued Sunday.
For Jacksonians curious about the service in future years, First Presbyterian Church is the place to ask about next year's date and how families can take part.
Sources: WBBJ