I got this from Reverend R. in Massachusetts and howled with laughter. So true!!
But first: an alarming development. In the last week I have seen not one but TWO professional photos of women clergy where they are wearing sleeveless clericals. Wearing the clergy shirt shell, with no jacket, in the professional photo. In one case it was the photo used to announce a minister’s call to a new parish; in another it was a photo of a grant recipient. Nothing else about the professional photos was unusual: authentic smile, nice background (office or outdoors).
I think you need to address this.
I even wrote a song about it, to the tune of “Greensleeves” of course.
What photo is this,
Of yonder Ms.
In clericals, all smile-ing
Where are her sleeves,
Has she received
An exemption
From professional styling?This, this
A better choice could be
For the new call announcement
That everyone will see
Haste, haste
To jacket or blazer
You may have nice arms,
But you’re not Nadia Bolz-Weber . . . .
People, please. NO bare arms. There is no reason whatsoever for you to think that clericals and armpits belong in the same outfit. Please divest yourself of this sense of appropriateness. It is not appropriate. NBW has made this look her signature, and let her alone have it. Reverend R., a debt of thanks to you, you witty kitten!
The sleeveless dress is a staple in TX pulpits for some women ministers and lay service leaders, at least in the (some) black church.
Sleeveless clericals are intended (I believe) to be worn underneath something…I have one I wear under a jacket or vestments, but would never, ever wear it alone. A tailored sleeveless top or dress can look wonderful and for some climates may be appropriate, but this is not the same as a sleeveless clerical shirt.