Scottish and Native American
Traditions and Dancers Meet

by Monty Clendenin

The emcee announced, "People have come to the circle in a good way." With that, members of Covenant Presbyterian Church of Anniston, Alabama and solo bagpiper Ms. Kathleen Ryan entered the sacred circle at the Northeast Alabama Intertribal Pow Wow for the second time in as many years. Circling with the Native American Dancers in splendid tribal regalia, Native American Warriors Society and Color guard we paid tribute to all United States Veterans. Last year we were "providentially" having our first Scottish Reformation & Presbyterian Heritage Sunday the same weekend the Native Americans were gathered for Pow Wow in Anniston, Alabama. By invitation of the 3rd Annual intertribal Pow Wow Council we were back last April. Our first trip around the circle our piper played "Scotland the Brave," then in solo in the center of the sacred circle she played "Amazing Grace" as hundreds of participants raised their prayer fans, spirit sticks, raised arms and military salute in honor of all American Veterans.

Participants who enter the sacred circle are "Smudged." This sage smoke ceremony is similar to our "Confession of sin." It prepares the participant to enter the sacred circle (their Sanctuary) and dance with others. Similarly it cleanses the participant in the same way our absolution or assurance of pardon does.

Many conversations and stories were shared about participants dual-ancestry. Native Americans and Scots have lived in proximity in the Southeast for many hundreds of years. The similarities between cultures was apparent. Clans and Tribes. Chiefs, Elders, Councils, regalia, dancing, a yen for storytelling, so much of the language was familiar. Even in religious discussions, we shared a mutual respect and acknowledgement of our Unity in the midst of diversity. Many Native Americans embrace Christianity while keeping alive ancient culture and customs.

Just three days prior to the dance our Presbytery was led through the Unity in the midst of Diversity workshops as we prepared to debate and vote on Amendment "O" and other pending amendments. I can"t begin to tell you how good it felt to be rubbing shoulders, exchanging stories. And dancing in solidarity with our new friends at the Intertribal Pow Wow.

Chief Tucker "smudges" church secretary, Kay Cassell, who is wearing her grandmother"s shawl, as the Rev. Monty Clendenin looks on in his Scottish clan attire.

Chief Tucker "smudges" eight-year old Brody Mathews, church secretary Kay Cassell"s grandson, who was our main photographer.