A True Priest Doesn't Hide Himself

The Eponymous Flower ^ | 11/27/2010 | Tancred

[0beron]

The Soutane which is required as clerical attire in the Church law books, shows itself to be ever a career killer.

(kreuz.net)"I have decided for several years now to almost exclusively wear the Soutane."

Father Hendrick Jolie said this for the most recent interview of the Catholic monthly magazine 'Kirchliche Umschau'.

The Soutane is is in the eyes of the clergyman an acceptable and practical possibility, it makes the clergyman stand out in public:

"The Priest is not >>better<<. but most probably he's, >>other<<' -- he explains.

[humblegunner]

Well that just makes all the sense in the world, doesn’t it?

[Venturer]

I live in a relatively small community. My Priest couldnt hide himself if he wanted to

He is friendly with the clergy of the other denominations, and everyone know him when they see him.

On occasion he wears the Soutane, on other occasions he wears dungarees .No matter ,he is instantly recognisable to the whole community and one of the nicest men I have ever met. Hope we keep him for a long time.

[Notwithstanding]

I prefer that a priest where some sort of clerical garb unless he is at home, or the home of his own family, or in his bedroom if in public lodgiings.

He has the privilege of serving as a priest, and the clothing is an outward sign to others of that vocation, much like the wedding ring is for a married man or woman. A priest should have no problem being a witness for Christ whenever he is not at home.

It can also help the priest avoid compromising situations, as most people of good will will afford him some extra respect if he is identifiable as a priest.

It is typical for poorly formed older priests (who think they are “modern” or “hip”) to ridicule and mock newer priests for wearing clerical garb. I have seen young well-formed priests ridiculed for this by the parish staff at the urging of the older pastor.

[mlizzy]

I prefer that a priest where some sort of clerical garb unless he is at home, or the home of his own family, or in his bedroom if in public lodgings.

I agree. It's great when priests and nuns are visibly available in full clerical garb/habits. Makes Jesus and Mary smile I would imagine as well.

[A.A. Cunningham]

Sit up in your chair higher so things won’t fly so far over your grape.