Spencerport church is site for Kirkin' O' the Tartan

The Kirkin' O' the Tartan, a traditional ceremony dating back to 18th century Scotland, will be held Sunday, November 30, 10 a.m. at Ogden Presbyterian Church, 2400 South Union Street, Spencerport. Rev. Donald Windborne will preside at the ceremony which remembers deceased members of the Scottish clans.

The Kirkin' ceremony began after the Battle of Culloden in 1746 when the Clans were defeated by the British Army. To abolish clans, the British Crown ruled that wearing the tartan, playing the bag pipes, and singing Scottish songs were illegal. Through the years when the tartan was illegal, the Kirk (churches) would conduct a ceremony once a year when Scots would wear the tartan hidden on their body.

The Kirkin' service has continued up to the present with clan members wearing their tartans for dedication and blessing. The Kirkin' was originally a Scottish memorial service remembering Scots who had died defending Scotland.

Also participating will be an ensemble of pipers from The Rochester Scottish Pipes and Drums Band, Mary Lester offering harp and voice renditions, the presentation of Clans and Tartans and a dedication and blessing. The service is also a celebration of Saint Andrews Day.

Clan banners, kilts, tartans and plaids are encouraged. A reception and refreshments follow the service. The event is hosted by the Scottish Heritage Society, Inc.