Palmerston North Bishop Peter Cullinane has launched a nationwide search in New Zealand for a new symbol to identify Catholic clergy. Stuff.co.nz reports the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference has adopted dress standards already used by the Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North.
But Bishop Cullinane said those did not go far enough.
Changing times meant the traditional collar was being worn less by priests, but no new symbol had been inserted in its place, he said.
His own choice of casual attire was neat trousers and shirt, with gold crosses pinning his collar down.
It was a matter of being identifiable, without having to dress formally for casual occasions, he said.
"Identify so people know who I am, and identify with the people so I don't seem to come from a different race."
It was important for clergy to dress appropriately, without having to don the traditional black suit and collar.
"If we're going to move away from the one the people know us by, then we're going to have to put some work into an alternative."
It was a case of getting consistency, without rigidity, and also finding a distinctly Kiwi look.
Around the world, Catholic priests had different forms of dress, he said.
"I have been to meetings in Rome where bishops and cardinals wore ties."
He hoped priests from around the country would contribute ideas.
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(Source: CTHN)