They will know us by our Liturgical Vestments

I find that the most beautiful part of any Episcopal worship service is the vestments. Yes, the words are beautiful, the church is beautiful, the sermon is beautiful, but the vestments that vary from congregation to congregation have such a sentimental and emotional depth that I just can't resist.

Some people believe that vestments are an irrational expense, or a silly way for priests to look more pious. While some of that might be partially true every once in a while, I believe there is a much more beautiful sense to the use of vestments.

I believe that they are an easy and symbolic way to beautify our worship services. Case closed. They are easily identifiable by their bright colors and elaborate adornments, but I believe them to be a sign of who we are. We are Eucharistic people. We are people that fed by the sacraments, and in that, restored by Christ each in every week.


So, in part, we should be wearing these vestments each and every day (metaphorically, of course, unless you find ancient liturgical garb absolutely dashing).

"By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35, NRSV)

Jesus tells that everyone will know that we are his disciples. Not just our family. Not just our Church. Not just other Christians. Everyone. Just as the liturgical vestments are an icon to the world, we must reflect our Christian faith through our love.

This way of presenting ourselves is beautiful. It has sentimental emotional depth. And trust, me, the world won't be able to resist.