I finally did it

[Shamalama]

My church is only 9 years old, and we have around 200 for the morning service ... and I am the part-time Minister of Music, and have been so since the first service!

It's something in my family's blood, I guess. My grandpa was a music leader for many years, and my uncle has been a music leader at several start-up churches.

That said, I have to agree with chasem's statement of "not to cause your brother to fault". Sure, I could show up one Sunday with a bright red wig, but the break in the overall atmosphere of worship and reverence would outweigh any reason for me to wear it.

I might wear my new kilt to casual church events, like an ice cream social in the summer, or a chili cook-off in the fall, etc. But long before I do I will have private conversation with the Pastor to make sure that my "right" to wear anything I want does not infringe on the "what" a church is or represents.

The wearing of a kilt is for the pleasure of the wearer, and not to be the center of attention. It would be the same if I were wearing something from the American Revolution, or the Crusades, etc. I wear my kilt with the pride of my heritage, and of my long-lost ancestors, not to say "look at me".

And, unfortunately, we all have to realize and accept that to many the wearing of a kilt is "way out of the norm", maybe even "unacceptable for civilized folk". It's great for me, and it's OK for my family, but it's still questionable for many in my local community. I, for one, will take it very slow. Who knows - maybe someone will see me in public with my kilt and it will give them the courage to take their kilt out of the closet, blow off the dust, and wear theirs in public.

I have to admit that I felt empowered wearing my kilt for the first time in public. I really felt a touch of Scotland, a connection to my ancestors. I felt like a Scot (whatever that means).

[macwilkin]

That said, I have to agree with chasem's statement of "not to cause your brother to fault". Sure, I could show up one Sunday with a bright red wig, but the break in the overall atmosphere of worship and reverence would outweigh any reason for me to wear it.

The wearing of a kilt is for the pleasure of the wearer, and not to be the center of attention. It would be the same if I were wearing something from the American Revolution, or the Crusades, etc. I wear my kilt with the pride of my heritage, and of my long-lost ancestors, not to say "look at me".

I disagree with comparing the kilt to a "bright red wig". With a jacket and tie, or even a nice dress shirt and the full rig, a kilt is quite appropriate for a church service -- the most famous recent example would be The Duke of Rothesay (Prince Charles) attending church in Scotland dressed in day attire.

My Scottish ancestors were active members of their churches, so when I wear my kilt to services, I am honouring their faith & devotion, as well as my heritage, not to be "the center of attention".

Also on uniforms in church: I have worn my National Park Service Ranger uniform to early services before going to work, and no one has ever found that "distracting", at least to my knowledge. The same with law enforcement & military uniforms.

Regards,

Todd

[Rigged]

I've worn kilts to many churches. A conservative approach is all that's needed. In fact, with a black Mocker Utilikilt, black shirt, black socks and black shoes, I was mistaken for a priest when we visited Asissi.

[davedove]

[QUOTE=Rigged]I've worn kilts to many churches. A conservative approach is all that's needed.QUOTE]

I think that's probably the best approach. I long as you're dressed conservatively with the kilt, there should be no problems. As long as you're not trying to draw attention to yourself, it should be okay. Of course, discussing it with the pastor is probably a wise tactic.

[Shamalama]

cajunscot, I do agree that the kilt is in no way akin to a bright red wig. I think they are beautiful and appropriate.

My son is home on leave from Afghanistan. He wore his Marine Dress Blues to our morning service last Sunday.

We've had police officers that were going straight to work after the service, so they wore their uniforms to church.

And I believe that, if done right like you described, would be most appropriate for a church service.

With all that said, I also think you have to be cognizant of how others react. If the kids spend the hour giggling at you, or if the old ladies get all in a huff, or if the ushers don't want to show you to a seat, then is it worth it? Of course if this were what actually happens in a particular church then you need to spend some time looking for ANOTHER church.

Personally I think it all goes back to the ancient question: "what is worn underneath a kilt?" If it weren't for that ONE question then I don't think anyone anywhere would give a kilted man a second glance (well, maybe a third or fourth or fifth).

[Bob C]

With all that said, I also think you have to be cognizant of how others react. If the kids spend the hour giggling at you, or if the old ladies get all in a huff, or if the ushers don't want to show you to a seat, then is it worth it?

May the day never come when I feel I have to tailor my life to suit THAT sort of people.

Yes, it would be worth it. Perhaps more so.

[macwilkin]

cajunscot, I do agree that the kilt is in no way akin to a bright red wig. I think they are beautiful and appropriate.

My son is home on leave from Afghanistan. He wore his Marine Dress Blues to our morning service last Sunday.

We've had police officers that were going straight to work after the service, so they wore their uniforms to church.

And I believe that, if done right like you described, would be most appropriate for a church service.

With all that said, I also think you have to be cognizant of how others react. If the kids spend the hour giggling at you, or if the old ladies get all in a huff, or if the ushers don't want to show you to a seat, then is it worth it? Of course if this were what actually happens in a particular church then you need to spend some time looking for ANOTHER church.

Personally I think it all goes back to the ancient question: "what is worn underneath a kilt?" If it weren't for that ONE question then I don't think anyone anywhere would give a kilted man a second glance (well, maybe a third or fourth or fifth).

I see your point, Shamalama. I guess I've just never had that happen to me before in church, and I've visited several churches of different denominations wearing one. Questions after service in the parish hall over coffee? yes. A few wee comments or jokes, all in good fun? On occasion, but I can never think of a negative experience per se.

btw, I'm glad to hear of your's sons leave from Afganistan, and I am grateful for his service -- he and all the coalition forces on duty are in my thoughts.

Cheers,

Todd

[Archangel]

oops.
I want to make it clear that my earlier statement was my own decision and not intended to be more than an observation, a factor to consider.
My present congregation would take it better than previous ones but I still feel it is the wrong place for me to be a distraction. On the other hand, those that are distracted have more to examine within themselves. One view I take, not as a rigid rule, is that narrow-mindedness is just another disability to accommodate. They have a right to worship, and no right to impose on others. There are a few, a minority, in our congregation. It doesn't affect my own worship to wear my kilt or not. I'm more distracted with sitting in the military kilt for that long, it's not as comfortable for sitting as it is for walking and standing.
Maybe I'm doing this congregation a disservice and should reconsider after hearing the feedback here. Yes, I'll think about it.
No, I don't see wearing a kilt to church as the same as wearing a "Jimmy Hat".
Yes, I would be surprised, horrified and ashamed if any of our congregation mistreated a visitor/guest in a kilt, and I would definitely speak out.

[Riverkilt]

You be one of us for sure. Easy to tell from your pic. You got a pair all right.

Welcome to the joy of kilts. Ere long you'll be sporting a Marine Corps tartan in support of your son, then a bunch of contemporary kilts, then a hand sewn tank of your clan tartan...tis a joy.

Thanks for the big pic of the Stewart black, have been wanting one, never considered Stillwater as a source for that pattern. Off to check it out.

Ron

[Macman]

Hey there, Shamalama. That's a great picture. I just ordered one exactly the same, so I'm glad to hear about your three day delivery time. Mine will take a little longer (coming across the border) and I can hardly wait. Enjoy wearing your new kilt!