The old stone churches, the Guelph Historical Society, and the City of Guelph are hosting the fifth annual John Galt Sunday Kirking on Aug. 5.
“Kirking” is a Scottish ceremonial parade of dignitaries led by a piper as a prelude to a civic church service.
The service recognizes the contribution of local leaders, expresses hope for their wisdom, and shows appreciation for their dedication to the local community.
This ceremony was practised in John Galt’s Irvine, Scotland at the time of Guelph’s founding in 1827.
The community is invited to follow the piper as civic leaders from many faiths, cultures and volunteer organizations are kirked from the Guelph Civic Museum (52 Norfolk Street) to the Church of Our Lady Immaculate. The procession begins at 12:10pm.
Participants are welcome to wear tartan, and have their tartan blessed.
Donations of non-perishable food items will be distributed to Sister Christine’s Welcome In Drop-in Centre and the Chalmers Community Services Centre. Both charities are supported by the ecumenical group known as CORE (Guelph Churches’ Outreach).
Anyone wishing to contribute to the food drive can place non-perishable foods in barrels available at Knox Presbyterian Church (20 Quebec Street, Chapel Lane entrance) from 10am to 12pm, Tuesday to Thursday, and at the Guelph Civic Museum (52 Norfolk Street) from 1 to 5pm until John Galt Day on Aug. 5.
The celebration takes place on Aug. 5 at 12:30pm at Our Lady Immaculate, 28 Norfolk Street, in Guelph.
