We will celebrate Reformation Sunday on October 26th at both the 8am and 10am services with our traditional Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans. This reminds us of the roots of Presbyterianism in Scotland.

Clan and family tartans became popular in the mid-18th century Scotland. As part of the effort to bring Scottish Highlanders under control in the 1700’s, the Act of Proscription was passed and the wearing of the tartan was banned. From that period came the legend of Highlanders secretly bringing pieces of tartan cloth into their kirks to be blessed.

In the mid-1900’s, Presbyterian Minister Reverend Peter Marshall gave a sermon at the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church entitled “Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans” and the celebration was born out of subsequent services. The people of God have celebrated their faith and heritage across time.

Today churches of many denominations celebrate the Kirkin’ O’ the Tartan service. We honor those who came before us as we remember those who suffered to reform the Christian church in Great Britain and beyond.