The Black Watch

On the first Sunday each May, The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada marches in its annual Church Parade along Sherbrooke Street from the Bleury Street Armoury to the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul and back again. All are welcome to share this testament to peace.

Please note, this year the Black Watch Church parade will be held a week later, on Sunday, May 9.

This historic regiment has a long association with our church. Their presence honours the many members of our congregation who have given their lives in our defence, their names inscribed on our walls, and our Scottish-born Presbyterian faith so ready to welcome people from around the world. The Colours (flags) the Regiment has symbolically carried into past battles hang in the Sanctuary to represent their sacrifice in defending the peace we cherish and the freedom to worship in liberty.

Note other symbolism of the Church Parade. Soldiers march to the church - the army comes humbly to God's house. They lay down their Colours which are a record of history on the Lord's Table and worship in peace. The Commanding Officer reads the Lesson, acknowledgement of the dominion of God's word. The haunting bagpipe lament during the service mourns those who have died in honour, its sound fading as a reminder to never forget their sacrifice. The Sermon by the Regiment's Chaplain reminds us of the supremacy of Christ's message to the world. As the service ends, the regiment carries its Colours, furled as they depart from the Sanctuary, ready once again - as in our national anthem's call to duty - to stand on guard for us.  

You'll find more information about the Black Watch at their website.