The 6th annual Scottish Heritage Sunday on May 17 is fast approaching at the First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro. Once again, the magical sound of the bagpipe will be heard in downtown Greensboro.
The history of the bagpipe goes back more than 3,000 years. Made of hollow reeds and animal skins, early forms of the bagpipe were known to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Hittites, Assyrians, Greeks and Romans. Rome played a major role in its development. As the Roman Empire spread across Europe, Britain and the Mediterranean, so did its version of the bagpipe, the tibia utricularis.
Once in Scotland, the bagpipe began to evolve over the centuries, with the Great Highland Bagpipe emerging in the 16th Century. Today the Great Highland Bagpipe is thoroughly intertwined with the culture of Scotland and can be heard at weddings, festivals, celebrations, and other gatherings.
Presbyterianism also saw its beginnings in 16th century Scotland, so it is fitting that, as the church celebrates its Scottish heritage, the bagpipe plays a major role, too.
The event will begin at 11 a.m. Visitors will be welcomed to the church by the magical sound of the Great Highland Bagpipe. Greeters and others will be dressed in a variety of modern kilts featuring many different clan tartans. Pipers and drummers will lead the processional into the church with the inspirational notes of Highland Cathedral.
During the service, there will be a special blessing — called the Kirkin’ of the Tartans — of all families, whether or not your heritage has any Scottish connection. Afterward, visitors may have some tea and shortbread and enjoy more glorious bagpipe music as well as the singing of traditional Scottish folk tunes. Those who have a kilt or tartan sash are encouraged to wear them.
The First Presbyterian Church, a PC (USA) church, is located at 117 S. Main St. (next to the post office) in downtown Greensboro. Sunday services are at 11 a.m., preceded by Scripture Study at 9:45 a.m.