In its 2000-year history, the Roman Catholic Church has a rich heritage on costumes and pageantry. From the papal vestments to first communion dressing, there are protocols to be followed under the Roman Catholic traditions for every occasion.

Hence, it is not surprising that for Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to New York, new stoles were commissioned for the 500 priests and deacons who will assist the pontiff when he holds a Papal Mass at the Yankee Stadium on April 20th.

When the faithful come forward for communion, 500 Catholic priests and deacons will serve them who will be wearing a white stole specially ordered by The Archdiocese of New York for the occasion.

Stoles are long, narrow scarf-like garments that are worn around the neck and shoulders by priests, and across the chest, like a sash, by deacons. According to CM Almy, America’s oldest church outfitter and the company commissioned to make these garments, the stole is the primary emblem of ordained ministry, symbolizing the yoke of Christ.

For that reason alone, the clergy already cherishes this iconic apparel. Yet, with Pope Benedict XVI’s historic New York visit, these white stoles had been embroidered with “Benedict XVI, April 20, 2008″ commemorating the event.

“Church vestment making is still centered in Europe. The Pope and much of his retinue are outfitted by European companies,” said Almy President Stephen Fendler.

Yet as a church outfitter, CM Almy, which was founded in New York City in 1892, has a long collaboration history with the Archdiocese of New York for papal visits. Almy produced communion vessels and vestments for Pope John Paul II’s historic Yankee Stadium Mass in 1979.

The company also made a special processional cross for his visit to St. Joseph’s Seminary in Yonkers in 1995. Many of those articles will be used again at several events during Benedict XVI’s visit to New York this month.
(Via FashionWindows)