- November 7, 2024
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Normally at this time of year, Christ Church of Longboat Key would be ringing with the sound of bagpipes for the Kirkin O' the Tartans service. Bagpipes prevail over the service as attendees pass by in kilts carrying the banners of Scottish clans. Usually, the service draws several hundred worshippers for the service and subsequent Scottish dinner, but this year it was attended only by those participating in the procession. Fewer songs were sung and there was no gathering dinner as church members watched the service from home.
"We hope that next year we can resume the full service," the Rev. Norman Pritchard said. "It’s an important landmark for church and community, and it reminds us of the importance of affirming our loyalties and being willing, if necessary, to pay a price for the freedoms we enjoy."