National Anthem

You may have noticed that for the last few years we have not sung the National Anthem at the close of the service on Remembrance Sunday. A full explanation of the reasons for this was offered to the Kirk Session some months ago, and I think I also wrote about it in a previous issue of the magazine. But it may be helpful to do so again.

For some years I had become aware that the Anthem was being sung with less and less enthusiasm by the congregation. On enquiring among my colleagues in the town I discovered that St John's was in fact the only congregation in Carluke that used the Anthem on Remembrance Sunday, and on reflection felt that there was good reason for us to fall in line with the practice of the others.

The main point is this: the Act - or Service - of Remembrance takes place at the Market Square, not in the churches, as a united community event to honour those who fell in the World Wars and who continue to serve and make sacrifices for their country. The church services that follow may or may not include a Remembrance theme. For my own part, I would always want to include thoughts and prayers on Remembrance in our worship.

I have come to believe that the appropriate time to sing the National Anthem is in fact in the Market Square, when the community is gathered - in increasing numbers year by year - and politicians, local and youth organisations lay their wreaths. I have raised the issue with the local Ministers' Fellowship, but as yet no decision has been made.

I should add that the Anthem would continue to be sung at, for example, BB Parade services. If any member of the congregation has a view on this matter, then please speak to the minister about it.