On Habits and Religious Clothing
John Michael Talbot

The early monk's habit, and Francis's as well, were distinct garbs symbolizing a religious commitment recognized by the Church. It was very simple and poor, and was recognized as a solidarity with the poor. It was not simply the garb of the poor, nor a liturgical type vestment for Church functions. It was the ordinary clothing of the consecrated person. Lay couples associated with monastic communities, and lepers also wore such clothing.

I do not encourage wearing this type of habit unless it symbolizes a similar consecration to Christ recognized by some Church authority. This is very specific for Catholics. I did not wear such a habit until I was authorized to do so by my spiritual father and the Franciscans.

Our community, The Brothers and sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage, has specific guidelines for wearing our tunic shirts, habits, and prayer shawls etc. Our goal is to wear them in a way that builds up, and encourages the people of God, and avoids self-righteousness or pride on the wearer's part.

When worn in this way, the habit becomes a silent witness to a particular way of life in response to the call of Christ. It reminds the wearer, and those who see it, of a call from God beyond the normal parish way of following Christ in the Church and the world.

John Michael Talbot