Vestments
Before a priest celebrates Mass, he puts on his vestments.
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What are these robes and sashes, and what do they mean?
The first thing the priest puts on is the alb. This is a long white
garment that goes all the way to the feet. The word alb comes from
the Latin alba, which means white. It is reminiscent of a baptismal
garment, reminding the priest that, at the core of it all, he is a
Christian.
A cincture is a braided cord used as a belt around the alb. It symbolizes
chastity.
The priest then puts on his stole, a long cloth scarf that marks the
Office of the priest or deacon. A priest wears his stole around the
neck so that both ends hang down the front. The stole symbolizes
the priest’s sacramental power and authority as he represents
Christ. It is the Savior’s “yoke” that Jesus mentions in Matthew
11:29-30.
The outermost vestment of the priest is called a chasuble (CHAZuh
buhl). This can be a different color according to the liturgical
season or feast. The chasuble is similar to a tent-like poncho worn
by shepherds in ancient times. Thus it symbolizes the priest “putting
on Christ,” our leader and Good Shepherd.
For further study:
Revelation 3:4-5 • Revelation 19:8 • Matthew 11:29-30
Boston Catholic Website: http://bit.ly/1dy1BI5
Notes
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