There are two Kirkin’ services at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Plan to arrive early as parking in the area is rather limited. Wear whatever attire you are comfortable worshiping in - all the better if you wear a kilt and sash! Each Kirkin’ worship service begins with a procession featuring the magnificent music of the Salt Lake Scots Bagpipe band. The Bible is carried in by the Beadle, a special office dating back to the Middle Ages when Bibles were rare and costly treasures. The chief duty of the Beadle was always to guard and protect the Bible.

Young people called acolytes (from the Greek akolouthos, meaning followers/attendants) light candles to symbolize the light of Christ, a custom dating to the second century. Other young people carry banners from our Christian, Scottish and American heritages. Finally, representatives of Scots clans of the Salt Lake region come in bearing their tartans.

The worship service is both stately and joyful, including special music by the Salt Lake Scots and the First Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir and a message for people of all heritages. A particular highlight is the blessing of the tartans. No matter how many clans are present, each clan receives a unique blessing, just as God has a special blessing for each person on earth.