Priestly vestments

Priestly vestments = the clothing, robes, etc. of a Catholic priest and their meaning

• this page is part of Catechism of the Catholic Church
• related to Layout of a church

** page under construction **

Why the black robe?

• to show poverty, simplicity
• to remind that death is our destination and goal

Vestments list & definitiions

alb

• white robe worn under the chasuble (outer robe)
• symbolizes purity of heart
  • that the priest brings to the altar

amice

• an apron-like vest that ties in the back
• symbolizes moderation in words
  • and defense against the temptations of the Devil

chasuble

• the outer robe, which will be in different colors depending on the liturgical season or day
• symbolizes charity

cincture

• rope that goes around the waist outside of the alb (white robe)
• symbolizes chastity and continence

cope

• symbolizes

stole

• the thick sash the goes around the neck over the shoulders
• symbolizes priestly power and authority

Liturgical colors

Green	Ordinary Time	Hope
Gold (or white)	Christmas, Easter and Feast Days of the Holy Family and saints who were not martyred	Glory, innocence, purity
Purple	Advent, Lent and requiem Masses (funerals)	Humility and penance
Red	Pentecost & Feast Days of martyrs	Holy spirit and blood shed for Christ
Rose	Third Sunday of Advent and Fourth Sunday of Lent	Joy and love
White (or gold)	Christmas, Easter and Feast Days of the Holy Family and saints who were not martyred	Glory, innocence, purity

References

• see "Mass explained" for how priests prepare their dress for mass: Mass Explained — November 29, 2021 on Vimeo
• What Is The Meaning Of A Priest’s Vestments? A Practical Guide
• [see: https://www.archmil.org/Our-Faith/items-mass.htm Items used at Mass (archmil.org)]