I’ve always been well aware that little things can balloon into big things in church-work.  

When I was an Intern prior to my ordination, I saw a church divide over whether the Music Director should be called a “Minister of Music.”  One camp believed that everyone should be thought of as a “minister” while others felt that expectations (and ethics) are raised when you use that word and it should be reserved for clergy.  It was not pretty.  

The easy-going, non-judgmental nature of our church makes a huge difference in avoiding conflict.  People respect each other and there are not many hills that people are willing to die on, as they say.  I’m grateful for that because it allows us to accomplish more and not get distracted.  We stay focused on the ministries that we are passionate about.

I was reminded of this recently when I was asked why I wasn’t wearing a robe on some Sundays.  It has since become lightheartedly known as “Robe-gate.”

I confess the whole thing was my idea.  Last fall, I was trying to mix things up a bit by not wearing a liturgical robe on “low” Sundays (three-day weekends).  I ran the idea by our Senior Deacons and Worship Deacons before giving it a try.  I considered it a minor change and really wasn’t invested either way.  I was happy to accommodate any feedback.

At first, the feedback was entirely positive.  I was told that I was more relatable without the robe.  More like everyone else.  The robe was “old fashioned.”

Shortly thereafter, I realized that there wasn’t unanimity on this.  There were those who felt strongly that I should wear the robe.  Why?  I was told that tradition matters.  It makes church feel more like church and not just a meeting or conference of some sort.  It says we’re here to worship and it helps identify who’s leading the liturgy.

Keep in mind, none of this was said in anger or with any expectation that I would do anything other than what I thought best; which I really appreciated.  

So what did I decide?  I decided to lean more toward wearing the robe. Why?  Well, first because I’m used to wearing one.  I’m actually more comfortable leading worship in one than without one.  

Secondly, one comment was shared that struck a chord.  The comment was this: “We look up to you and there are so few people we can look up to these days.”

Worship is full of symbols and the liturgical robe is one of them.  I realize that many clergy are eschewing the robe but it does make a statement.  It is a reminder of the role that we have.  It says that clergy are “set aside for leadership” (as it says in the vows of ordination) in the local church on behalf of the wider church.  

More importantly, I enjoy wearing the robe because I can redefine it.  That is, while it is true that the robe can be “old fashioned” it can also be brought up to date by the person wearing it.  To many, the robe suggests a seriousness, a pious stoicism.  That’s an image I relish smashing!  I think having someone wearing the robe who is upbeat and relatable creates an entry point to the church and to Christ while not abandoning this symbol that people look up to.  I strive to do that every Sunday.

So, thanks for the feedback!  I’m not promising that there won’t be a “robe-less” Sunday in the future, but the whole experience was very helpful to me and a reminder of the ease, comfort, and honesty we have in sharing with one another in our wonderful church.

See you in church,

–Rev. Dominic