The Gatherin’ O’ The Clans

Community Presbyterian Church of West Covina is pleased to be host to a tradition with great meaning among the Scottish clans. The “Kirkin’ of the Tartans” was established by the St. Andrews Society of Washington D. C. many years ago. For many years the widely loved Dr. Peter Marshall was president of St. Andrew’s of Washington and conducted the Kirkin’ at the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church of which he was pastor. The St. Andrew’s tradition was brought west by the St. Andrew’s Society of Los Angeles, together with Immanuel Church. The worship and the gatherin’ of the clans are presented yearly, usually during the fortnight of St. Andrew’s Day, November 30th. The service is traditional with special significance for Scots. We celebrate this traditional remembrance with the presentation at the communion table of the tartans of the Scottish clans, symbolizing rededication of Scots everywhere to God’s service. It is further characterized by the beauty of the Scottish music, the color and dignity of its presentation, and a close bond of fellowship sensed by all who attend. TARTAN symbolism is like to that of flags, its distinctive cross-lined patterns representing specific Scottish clans, regions, and regiments. Scottish history relates that in earlier times tartan clothing denoted the rank or status of he wearer. With the passage of time, patterns became systematized, and came to be identified with families which predominated in many areas of the feudal land. Thus, the idea of “clan” and regional tartans gained acceptance. THE PIPES! To many, the spirit of Scotland is embodied in the clear, penetrating, distinctive notes of the great highland bagpipes. Whether it be the lone piper’s melodius reflections of the storied lands of purple heather, or the exhilarating frame of the Scottish dance, or the majestic skirts with thunderous drums of a military band, this superb instrument, more than any other, has immediate racial identity. In the highlands of Scotland, the zesty sound of the great highland bagpipe appealed to the martial spirit and to life in the clan system. This is the noble music played for our worship and gatherin’ of the clans this afternoon by the R.P. Blandford & Son Pipe Band. Community Presbyterian Church of West Covina offers this opportunity for those of Scottish heritage to gather and to celebrate a grand tradition. All who have their TARTANS are invited to take part in the “Gatherin’ of the Clans” as we bring them to the Communion Table and announce their clan names. For our guests who are not of the Scottish heritage, we welcome you as we all take part in a moving and meaningful service. THE CONCERT During this Christmas season, we are pleased to present seasonal organ, handbell, and choral music in this special worship service. Scottish heritage endures. God’s heritage endures forever!