Vestments (Part 3): Why do you wear robes?

In our services in the Sanctuary, the ministers wear what many people call “robes.” Actually, they are wearing the two garments traditionally worn by Anglican clergy. The cassock is a simple black floor-length garment. It was everyday street-wear at the time of the English Reformation (this is where we trace our theological roots). The white surplice (pronounced like "surplus") is worn over it. Together, they have come to symbolize our salvation in Christ: our dark, sin-stained souls are washed, and covered with the pure righteousness of Christ.