Revisiting the "PANTS" Issue

[StMark]

Originally Posted by Sherri

Mark, I think part of the cultural change is just going from dressy clothing to more casual in every arena of life. Men used to wear suits to ballgames, to the doctor, etc. Now most businessmen are even casual. Women are definitely more casual in pants. Because it is acceptable to be casual at almost any event in America now, women feel comfortable in pants. I like to wear dresses, but I definitely feel more dressed up when I'm in one. However, I don't always like to be dressed up!!! I love the feel of a good comfortable pair of jeans!

Yes, that is true. most of the culture is more casual. sometimes i think that's good other times I don't. I think people are just a lot more sloppy and lazy in their presentation. how you present yourself is still important don't you think?

[Sherri]

Originally Posted by StMark

Yes, that is true. most of the culture is more casual. sometimes i think that's good other times I don't. I think people are just a lot more sloppy and lazy in their presentation. how you present yourself is still important don't you think?

I think you can be sloppy in a pair of jeans or you can look nice in a pair of jeans. I've seen plenty of both.

[StMark]

Originally Posted by Sherri

I think you can be sloppy in a pair of jeans or you can look nice in a pair of jeans. I've seen plenty of both.

I think you're right for the most part on this. In much of the UPC, people still dress like they are going to a grand ball - often overdone. however, I think when you dress up ( at least respectfully) it says you care about yourself and your surroundings and respect the place of worship.

[Sherri]

Eddie rarely wears a suit when he preaches anymore - only on Easter or baby dedications or ordination services, etc. We have had so many people come into church who have commented on the fact that he seems so much more accessible than any other preachers that they know, because of the way he is dressed.

So many people in the South have an image of church from their past and it's not always pretty. The whole suit and tie preacher image is a part of it and brings back negative feelings. They love the fact that Eddie is just in a nice shirt and pants. He seems more human to them. We have heard this from so many people! I'm not saying this is the way to go for all pastors; it has just worked well here.

[StMark]

Originally Posted by Sherri

Eddie rarely wears a suit when he preaches anymore - only on Easter or baby dedications or ordination services, etc. We have had so many people come into church who have commented on the fact that he seems so much more accessible than any other preachers that they know, because of the way he is dressed.

So many people in the South have an image of church from their past and it's not always pretty. The whole suit and tie preacher image is a part of it and brings back negative feelings. They love the fact that Eddie is just in a nice shirt and pants. He seems more human to them. We have heard this from so many people! I'm not saying this is the way to go for all pastors; it has just worked well here.

I think it's good. I don't know who told us we had to dress up like wall street in order to serve in church. Of course, I think there is a time and place for all things but I see your point- makes sense

[Sam]

Originally Posted by Sherri

Eddie rarely wears a suit when he preaches anymore - only on Easter or baby dedications or ordination services, etc. We have had so many people come into church who have commented on the fact that he seems so much more accessible than any other preachers that they know, because of the way he is dressed.
...
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How about a clergy collar?