Dear Bernie:

The history of clerical garb is one of evolution of custom. The issue of what priests wear or don't wear is purely one of custom. It is not a doctrinal issue. Thus, the Church, in her power of the keys, may set any rules she desires. When the Church speaks, God speaks.

Canon Law 284 states that "Clerics are to wear suitable ecclesiastical dress, in accordance with the norms established by the Episcopal Conference and legitimate local custom."

Jesus wore the clothing typical for his day. That he did not wear special clerical garb is meaningless. However, Jesus did accept special treatment (e.g., the woman who used expensive oil on the feet of Jesus, the palm procession on his entry into Jerusalem).

There were some disputes in the early Church about whether or not priests should wear any special garb distinctive from the laity. But, eventually a universal norm was established to have clerical clothing.

The clerical garb is actually very important as it is a witness to the world of Christ. It is a uniform that everyone recognizes and most people respect. Like a police officer on the beat with his uniform assures the community that he is there to deter crime, catch criminals, and protect the citizens. This message to the community is not possible with plain clothed officers.

For example, when I am in habit people take notice and usually offer respect. If I come into a room or get on an elevator and people are telling a dirty joke, they stop when they see me. Even atheist tend to offer that respect.

One time I was walking down the street and this woman ran up to me and pleaded with me to help this distraught woman who was so upset that they nearly walked in front of a car. Why she did not help the woman herself I do not know, but when she saw me she ran to me for help.

In a grocery store or on a train or anywhere in public my wearing the habit is a testimony to God and all sorts of people come up to me.

One time when I was waiting for a train in Chicago a woman approached me and asked me to watch her bags since there were no lockers left to use. I agreed. Then a rock band came up and saw there were no lockers and asked me to watch their instruments and belongings. So I sat there like being in a fort surrounded by this wall of baggage. They trusted me since I was in monastic habit.

The great ability for ministry and to witness to the faith is possible when priests and religious wear distinctive clothing.

In fact, all of us should wear something to identify ourselves as a Christian. It can be a cross necklace, a lapel pin, a ring, or whatever to testify to our Lord.

For a article on the history of clerical garb see the Catholic Encyclopedia.

God Bless,
Bro. Ignatius Mary