The faith of our fathers - Carmel Apologetics

CEREMONIES, ETC. 383head-dress such as was worn in the days of QueenElizabeth, her appearance would look to you verysingular. Now, our priestly vestments are far olderin style than the days of Queen Elizabeth ;mucholder even than the British Empire. Eusebius, andother writers of the fourth century, speak of themas already existing in their times. It is no wonder,therefore, that these vestments look odd to the unfamiliar eye.In the Old Law, God prescribed to the priests thesacred vestments which they should wear while engaged in their sacred office "And these shall be:the vestments which they shall make (for the priest):a rational and an ephod, a tunic and a straight linengarment, a mitre and a girdle. They shall makethe holy vestments for thy brother Aaron and hissons, that they may do the office of priesthood untoMe." 1 Guided by Heaven, the Church also prescribes sacred garments for her ministering priests.For, it is eminently proper and becoming that theminister of God, while engaged in the sacred mysteries, should be arrayed in garments which wouldconstantly impress upon him his sacred character,and remind him, as well as the congregation, of thesublime functions he isperforming.The vestments worn by the priest while celebrating Mass are, an Amict, or white cloth around theneck; an Alb, or white garment reaching to hisankles, and bound around his waist by a cincture ;1Exod. xxviii. 4.