Why Do Pastors Wear Robes in Church?

A pastor's robe serves to direct the congregation's attention to the message rather than the man delivering it.

When robes first became associated with religion and holiness, the connection was unintentional, as most people wore robes every day in the earliest days of Christianity. Since the apostles referenced the attire in religious writings that worshippers continued reading for centuries afterward, the reverence associated with robes in a religious context led to their timeless role in worship practices. Robes continue to be worn by some pastors and clergy members today.

Biblical Reference

Within the earliest Christian societies, almost everyone wore robes. The books of the New Testament frequently refer to the common dress in metaphoric terms conveying faith, holiness and worship. Such references included "the whole armor of God" in the book of Ephesians and washing robes until they were "white with the blood of the Lamb" in the book of Revelations. As centuries passed and worshippers read these references, the early common robes became interpreted as sacred attire, even as styles evolved. As a result, pastors and other clergy today and throughout history have continued wear robes in recognition of tradition and the clothing's sacred connotation.

Symbolism

A pastor's robe symbolizes his role of leading his congregation in worship just as Christ led his followers during Biblical times. In this symbolic sense, the robe honors tradition, conveys solemnity, solicits reverence, and sets the pastor apart -- while not necessarily above -- the congregation.

Identity

A pastor's robe is also worn to visually convey his calling and duty as a God-appointed vessel, in much the same way that the uniforms of nurses or soldiers de-emphasize the individuals wearing them to place emphasis on the calling their uniforms represent.

The robe emphasizes the pastor's holy role, rather than the man fulfilling it. The robe eliminates the distraction of the man delivering the message. The visual distinction the robe offers also serves to overpower the pastor's identity or relationships outside of the church. The robe signifies that while he wears it and addresses the congregation, he is more than a man. In essence, the robe serves to hide the pastor's "self" to remind his congregation that he speaks on behalf of a higher power.

Minimize Vanity and Material Concerns

Robes worn by religious figures have also been regarded as minimizing church leaders' concerns over their appearances and attire. While the congregation wears its collective "Sunday best," the minister's Sunday best is hidden underneath her robe. The robe frees the pastor from earthly concerns such as what to wear each week and how impressive she will look before the congregation. That energy can be spent on her message.

References

• Theologia; Why Does the Pastor Wear a Robe?; the Rev. Jeffrey J. Meyers; 1997
• House Church Network Association: Why Do Some Clergy Wear Robes?
• Christurc.org; Why the Pastor Wears a Robe; Michael Brown