Robbie Burns Night celebrated in Kindersley
By Joan Janzen
A series of old Scottish traditions took place at St. Paul’s United Church on the evening of January 25. On that date, Robbie Burns Night is celebrated in honour of the birthday of Scottish poet Robert Burns (otherwise referred to as Robbie). Although it is an annual event, Rev. Piotr Strzelecki noted this was the first time St. Paul’s and friends hosted it. He welcomed the 75 guests who were present before saying the Selkirk Grace.
LANG MAY YER LUM REEK! Bob Watson, Rev. Piotr Strzelecki and Cliff Jamieson stand as the Haggis was addressed at Robbie Burns Night on January 25th. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Cliff Jamieson piped in the Haggis, which was carried by Bob Watson at Robbie Burns Night at St. Paul’s United Church on January 25th. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Robbie Burns, the poet, was also known for his musical compositions and adaptations of folk songs. When piping in the haggis kicked off the evening, Cliff Jamieson played the song “A Man’s a Man for a That” on the bagpipes. That particular song traditionally announces the arrival of the haggis.
Attired in kilts, Bob Watson carried the haggis while following Cliff Jamieson playing the bagpipes. The traditional national dish of Scotland is a meat pudding, and it is usually made out of the liver, heart and lungs of a sheep and encased in a sheep’s stomach. However, Rev. Piotr chose to prepare the alternative offering “for the squeamish,” completely devoid of organ meat.
After the arrival, the haggis was addressed in the form of Robert Burns’ poem, “Address to a Haggis.” The very first Burns Night was held in July 1801 when nine of his closest friends gathered to mark five years since his passing. The piper was added in subsequent celebrations.
The hungry guests enjoyed a delicious roast beef supper, which included neeps ’n’ tatties (a potato dish) and oatcakes with marmalade. The meal was followed by a number of bagpipe selections, including “Auld Lang Syne,” “Scotland the Brave,” and “Amazing Grace.” Clayton Braybrook, the Bickersons, Heather Bews and the choir also provided musical entertainment for their guests.
Overall, the first-ever Robbie Burns Night was a huge success. Hopefully, it will become an annual event at St. Paul’s United Church.