Christian Association

• Although ritualistic clerical clothing is common to most religions, the term "vestments" is associated primarily with Christianity, and with Catholicism in particular.
  
  

Origin

• According to such sources as the Catholic Encyclopedia and Saint Elias Church, the origin of the priestly vestments of Christianity may be traced to the secular dress of the Greco-Roman world, rather than to the religious garments of the Old Testament.
  
  

Vestment Types

• Vestments worn by a Western pastor.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of James Emery
  
  Aside from gowns and robes, ritualistic articles of clothing such as head pieces, sashes and stockings, as well as ritualistic objects such as the shepherd's staff, are all considered to be vestments.
  
  

Evolution of Vestments

• A stained glass image of St. Gilbert, dressed in priestly vestments.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of John Haslam
  
  The articles of clothing worn and the objects used in rituals have undergone many changes throughout history. In the Middle Ages and during the Renaissance, these changes were especially pronounced.
  
  

Symbolism

• As new vestments are introduced, new meanings are provided for their use. For example, the maniple, a linen sash draped over the Catholic priest's left forearm, is considered to be a symbol of the acceptance of suffering.
  
  

Examples

• Examples of Catholic vestments include the amice (shoulder cover), the alb (tunic) and biretta (hat).