Strój duchownych diecezjalnych w ustawodawstwie partykularnym archidiecezji poznańskiej w latach 1867–2008
The outfit of diocesan priests in particular canon law regulations of the Archdiocese of Poznan since 1867 until 2008

Summary/Abstract: From the very beginning of the Church history, priests have differed fromlaymen not only because of their ordination, but, since the 5th century, in theclothes worn. At the beginning of the Middle Ages there were dozens of regulationsthat tried to force clergymen to wear cassocks. Nowadays however thisprocess is in reverse. It can also be seen in particular canon law regulations ofthe Archdiocese of Poznan since 1867 until now. In the 19th century bishopsregularly reminded about this obligation and even imposed sanctions on thosewho did not comply (e.g. they stated that a priest without a cassock cannotserve the Holy Mass). However since the middle of the 20th century, regulationshave become more and more lenient. Indeed, in the current law in theArchdiocese there is still the obligation to wear clerical dress, but also a permissionto use secular clothes as well. It is worth to reflect on the fact whetherresignation from public wearing a cassock or spiritual garb is really the consequenceof being closer to people or rather a matter of convenient lifestyle.Particular canon law does not answer this question.

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