Sydney Dean Supports Clerical Dress Reform

Press, Volume XCI, Issue 27583, 14 February 1955, Page 10

Sydney Dean Supports Clerical Dress Reform

(N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) "

(Rec. 10 p.m.) SYDNEY. February 13. The Dean of Sydney (the Very Rev. E. A. Pitt) thinks an open-necked shirt and slacks are adequate everyday wear for Sydney clergymen. Mr Pitt said this last night when commenting on a report that young New Zealand clergymen are revolting against the clerical collar. Older ministers, however, are objecting to any change. Told about the New Zealand clergy’s revolt, Mr Pitt said: “So they should too. I have been trying to lead a dress reform ever since I came here two years ago from England. “We live in a hot climate, so we should dress for a hot climate. A shirt and shorts would really be

sufficient for just getting about.” The Rev. A. Tulloh, a minister of the Presbyterian Church, thinks a clergy- ,, man should wear his “back to fronv collar for everyday wear. Mr Tulloh said: “He needs it to distinguish himself. You never know when you are going to pass a man who needs a clergyman. “Also, it is a challenge to the people around him. The unruly element t seems to behave better when there is a clergyman around,” he said. Mr Pitt said today that he did not wish to lead a major war on the subject. which coulfl easily be provoked > ecclesiastical circles. He said that his remarks should no* 4ba taken too seriously.