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Author Topic: Priest's Stole  (Read 140678 times)

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Offline Dolores

Priest's Stole
« on: November 20, 2025, 03:34:30 PM »
Why does a priest sometimes wear his stole crossed over his chest (like during Mass), but other times wears it hanging down like a bishop (like during Confession)?
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Offline Michaelknoxville

Re: Priest's Stole
« Reply #1 on: November 20, 2025, 06:19:51 PM »
;)I had to look it up 

Why the Position Changes
  • Crossed Stole (Mass)

    • Traditionally, when a priest vests for Mass, he crosses the stole over his chest and secures it with the cincture.
    • This crossing symbolizes humility and the burden of Christ’s yoke.
    • It also distinguishes the priest’s role at the altar from other sacramental functions.
  • Hanging Straight Down (Confession, Sacraments outside Mass)

    • When hearing Confession, the stole hangs straight down over the shoulders.
    • This form emphasizes the priest’s direct authority to forgive sins in Christ’s name.
    • It is also the common way to wear the stole when administering sacraments outside of Mass (e.g., Baptism, Anointing of the Sick)

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Offline Seraphina

Re: Priest's Stole
« Reply #2 on: November 20, 2025, 09:49:05 PM »
Quote from: Michaelknoxville on November 20, 2025, 06:19:51 PM
;)I had to look it up

Why the Position Changes
  • Crossed Stole (Mass)

    • Traditionally, when a priest vests for Mass, he crosses the stole over his chest and secures it with the cincture.
    • This crossing symbolizes humility and the burden of Christ’s yoke.
    • It also distinguishes the priest’s role at the altar from other sacramental functions.
  • Hanging Straight Down (Confession, Sacraments outside Mass)

    • When hearing Confession, the stole hangs straight down over the shoulders.
    • This form emphasizes the priest’s direct authority to forgive sins in Christ’s name.
    • It is also the common way to wear the stole when administering sacraments outside of Mass (e.g., Baptism, Anointing of the Sick)
Thank you! This is one of those questions I have from time to time, but don’t remember to ask when the priest is present, or it’s not an appropriate occasion. 
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