The various robes and other distinctive clothing worn by the pastor during the liturgy also contribute to an appropriate decorum for the weekly and seasonal services at Beautiful Savior. These vestments are not intended to glorify or draw attention to the individual pastor who wears them, but actually to cover and hide the man while marking and adorning the Office of the Ministry that he bears and serves. The pastor speaks and acts as Christ’s ambassador; that is his office. Vestments help us realize this and confess and give thanks that through the gifts given Jesus is here serving us with His own Word and Sacraments.

The white alb or surplice covers the man, and reminds us of Christ’s clothing us at Baptism with Himself. The stole is the scarf-looking cloth bearing the color of the church season. It reminds us of the yoke of Christ, the easy burden for His ordained ministers. The chasuble is the poncho-like vestment, also in the color of the church season, worn by the pastor who officiates, or is the celebrant, in the Divine Service. The pastor vests in the chasuble in preparation for the Service of the Sacrament, which begins after the Prayer of the Church.