3.20.2012

Church Fashion Is In The Aisles

By Honorary Rabbi Jo


"Why is he wearing gloves, is the money dirty?" If my otherwise angelic child had whispered quietly, in a low tone of voice would not have been concerned. The fact it was more of an announcement was the problem. Kids will do that, at the absolute worst moment. So such was our introduction, to church fashion, specifically church white usher glove fashion.

White Glove On The Other Foot

Because of the sense of humor God gave me (and lack of couth apparently), I was already crafting a piece about church money laundering. Then I had questions: Is he wearing them to cover hideous warts? Is he contagious? Was this a black-tie affair? It would be a hard case to make that my casual golf shirt and my son's jeans and are really formal wear.

It turns out to be none of the above. My inquisitive offspring and I discover that in some churches ushers are required to wear gloves. We also notice many wear church usher badges. Most traditions spring from a first occasion, and I wonder if this went back to when sterling silver is what offering plates were made from, or all usher were model T auto mechanics. It doesn't go back to Bible times I don't remember reading about Matthew or Mark.

further research showed this to be related to the church age or denomination - if your church is 100 years old, ushers are probably wearing gloves. They issue them at an early age, so tiny usher children work special services and children's church. I see no usher-ettes, this is a chick-free zone.

White Glove Inspection

Most traditions are rooted in a a pride-filled heritage. Some of it is status for to church usher gloves so I'm sure some guy paid $50 for his at a department store, even though plain white cotton would do. White gloved ushers get respect and recognition at the door, just like a Sunday School teacher or the organist, and if it's to the glory of God, good on you! More power to the glove-wearers. Serve with honor and reverence. Teach young people God's House should be respected. A kid's, worst fear must be suddenly seeing a white gloved hand on your shoulder when you're acting up on the back row.




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