At the head of the ceremony, dating back about 400 years, will be new city Provost Jimmy Gray.

But the event, at the Old High Church, will now recognise the valuable contributions of all faith groups, charitable agencies and voluntary organisations in Inverness.

It will bless the work of the elected members and officials and allow the council to recognise the contribution of the Christian community, according to a council statement released yesterday.

Last year, former SNP provost Bob Wynd created controversy by mooting that the Kirking — involving Highland councillors — should only take place once every four years, without asking the view of the city committee.

The Inverness Presbytery of the Church of Scotland also stepped into the row to express its surprise and concern.

Following the debate the committee set up a working group to revamp the ceremony and has worked closely with the Rev Peter Nimmo and the congregation of the Old High St Stephen's Church of Scotland.

Councillor Wynd stepped down in June when the 17-strong SNP group relinquished power in the former council administration run with the Independents.

The event will begin at 10am when a procession of uniformed youth groups, councillors and guests make its way from the Town House down Church Street for the service at 10.30am.

The Rev Peter Nimmo with Provost Jimmy Gray at the Old High Church ahead of the ceremony to mark the work of faith groups, charitable agencies and voluntary groups.

It is estimated there will be 120 people in this year's procession, led by pipe bands from Northern Constabulary and the British Legion.

The procession returns to the Town House from the Old High Church at 11.30am.

"I would like to invite all the people of the city of Inverness — of all faiths and of none — to the kirking service as we celebrate our common life together at this important community event," said the Rev Nimmo.

"Whether you come to take part in the worship service within the Church or simply to enjoy the parade, you will be made very welcome." His sermon this year is intriguingly titled "The Uncommon Good Fund."

Provost Gray, city committee chairman, said it was an important date in the calendar for Inverness — one highly valued by the council and the Kirk.

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