Let us celebrate St Andrews Day
A few words about this patrion saint of Scotland
St. Andrew, known as the Patron Saint of Scotland, has a deep and venerable connection to Scottish history and culture. His significance and the celebration of St. Andrew's Day are rooted in both religious and national identity.
The Story of St. Andrew
St. Andrew was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, making him a significant figure in Christian theology. Interestingly, St. Andrew never actually set foot in Scotland during his lifetime. His connection to Scotland is more symbolic, tied to the country's cultural and religious history.
Legend has it that in the 4th century, relics of St. Andrew were brought to Scotland by St. Rule (or St. Regulus), who was guided by an angel to take them to the western edge of the world for safekeeping. The relics were said to have been enshrined at what is now St. Andrews, a town on the east coast of Scotland, which became a major medieval pilgrimage site.
The Emergence of St. Andrew's Day
St. Andrew's Day, is celebrated on November 30th and marks the saint's martyrdom. This prayer encapsulates the spirit of St. Andrew's life as a disciple of Jesus and his role as a guide and intercessor for Christians. It is often used in personal devotion and in religious services commemorating St. Andrew.
Prayer to St. Andrew
"O glorious St. Andrew, you were the first to recognize and follow the Lamb of God. With your friend, St. John, you remained with Jesus for that first day, for your entire life, and now throughout eternity.
Just as you led your brother, St. Peter, to Christ and many others after him, draw us also to Him. Teach us to lead others to Christ solely out of love for Him and dedication in His service.
Help us to learn the lesson of the Cross and to carry our daily crosses without complaint so that they may carry us to Jesus. Amen."
Celebrations in the Scottish Highlands
Over centuries, this day evolved from religious observance to a celebration of Scottish culture and heritage. In the Scottish Highlands, St. Andrew's Day is celebrated with a blend of tradition and modernity. The day might begin with community gatherings, where traditional Scottish music, dance, and food play a central role.
St. Andrew's Cathedral in Inverness, a prominent landmark, is dedicated to St. Andrew and is an important site for the Scottish Episcopal Church. While the cathedral itself is a testament to St. Andrew's influence in Scotland, it does not house personal artefacts of the saint. It's more a place of worship and reflection, embodying the spiritual legacy of St. Andrew.
Significance in Modern Times
Today, St. Andrew's Day goes beyond religious connotations, becoming a celebration of Scottish identity and pride. It's a day for Scots and those of Scottish descent worldwide to celebrate their history, culture, and contributions to the world and in this respect is often celebrated as far afield as the United States, Canada and Australia.
In summary, St. Andrew's Day is a significant cultural and historical event in Scotland. It serves as a vibrant reminder of Scotland's rich heritage, celebrated through music, dance, food, and community gatherings. This day not only commemorates the Patron Saint of Scotland but also embraces the country's unique identity and traditions.