Editor’s note: In the December issue of the Saskatchewan Anglican, in her article “From Heaven to Earth and Back,” the Rev. Marie Louise Ternier wrote about orders of service, ceremonial conventions and clergy vestments as being important parts of both spiritual celebrations and identity. This is the second Letter to the Editor responding to this article and we welcome more comments to the editor on this subject.
Talk about God’s timing! It still amazes me. A few days ago, I finished reading the Book of Numbers. In it, God was very specific about the Ark of the Covenant, the tent that was to be His temple and the priest’s clothes. everything from measurements, colours, material, jewelry, types of metals and woods used in the construction.
He was a very detailed Lord. I must admit it was a bit dry reading, but I understand why; the people couldn’t be trusted to do what they were asked without detailed instructions.
Then I got my copy of December’s Saskatchewan Anglican and read the Rev. Canon Marie-Louise Ternier’s column. I don’t know much about ancient Roman dress codes, but I do know that God decided what the priests should wear. They were His representatives and needed to stand out from the rest of His people.
I do appreciate the vestments; it reminds us that what we are about to do/experience is Holy.
Last year, we laid my sister to rest. Her son said I could say a few words, so beforehand I went looking for the minister. I found him accidentally: I thought he was an employee of the funeral home. He wore nothing special to let me know what his role was.
I didn’t expect vestments, but there was no collar, no cross pin or pendant, nothing. I don’t expect to see priests in vestments when not in church or at a summer barbecue service, but there are certain times when they are appreciated for many more reasons other than identification.
In the December issue, I turned the page and the Rev. Coolen has added his thoughts, which I found myself agreeing with wholeheartedly. Thanks to both for a discussion topic that could prove to be very interesting.
Valerie Middleton, Unity, Sask.
