The Church of God in Christ, otherwise known as COGIC, is one of the largest denominations in the United States, and in fact, is the largest Pentecostal denomination in the country. Much of its membership is in the south, and COGIC has nearly 9 million members.
The Church has officiated detailed guides for ritual and vestment. Though to the uninitiated, it might not seem straightforward, different vestments are reserved for specific ceremonies and occasions.
Take, for example, Class A COGIC vestments reserved for choir dress. Despite the name, choir dress is not necessarily appropriate for choir itself; instead it refers to the traditional habits of clerics engaged in public prayer or for the administration of sacraments (except the Eucharist).
This is what COGIC prescribes for Class A choir vestments.
Anglican Cassock and Cincture
Typically a black Anglican cassock is a deep-cuffed, double-breasted vestment that reaches to the ankles and is buttoned along the front. It has a high collar with a two-inch opening.
Approved Anglican cassocks are typically made from polyester and rayon which is both comfortable and wrinkle-free. The cassock should be girt about the middle with a two-inch cincture.
American Surplice
The surplice, which is worn over the cassock, is a white cotton or linen habit with wide sleeves and a loose body that reaches past the waist, just about to the knees. It often has a square-yoked neck but round necks are also common.
The American surplice may or may not be decorated with traditional clerical lace, depending on the supplier and their designs. The surplice, a white garment, is symbolic of hope and of the purity of divine charity.
Black Tippet
Though the tippet and stole may have originated from an “orarium” and may have at one point been used as a napkin to clean the chalice between users during Eucharist, today the tippet is a symbol of office.
It should be made with nine-inch wide panels and of the appropriate size so that it falls below the knee. This may make measurement necessary (just as it does for other garments). It should also be embroidered with the seal of the Church of God in Christ.
Pectoral Cross
The Pectoral Cross, another symbol of office, should be made of pure sterling silver and suspended by a woven cord. This is a necessary accessory for all ordained pastors and elders.
These COGIC vestments and accessories, with the exception of the cassock and cincture, are specifically, and ceremonially, bestowed during the installation and consecration of a bishop of the Church of God in Christ.
Where Can You Get Class A COGIC Vestments?
Interested in finding high-quality Class A COGIC vestments, specifically for choir dress? Look no further than Divinity Clergy Wear, online at DivinityClergyWear.com.
Divinity Clergy Wear carries COGIC Class A vestments that include a black Anglican cassock and matching cincture, along with a white surplice with traditional clerical lace, a black tippet, and a silver cross with a black cord.
They also provide a G.C.P.E.-approved elder and adjutant Class A vestment set that includes a black cassock and cincture, white surplice, black tippet (with a sewn-on COGIC seal), as well as a silver cross and black cord.
Divinity Clergy Wear also carries a wide range of other vestments and clerical accessories, including but not limited to clergy robes, surplices, rochets, chimeres, rabats, clergy shirts and collars, and preaching dresses.
Those that would like to learn more about either of these offerings are encouraged to visit DivinityClergyWear.com or visit them in their store, which is conveniently located about halfway between New York and Philadelphia in Hamilton, New Jersey. Customers can also reach Divinity Clergy Wear by phone at 609-838-7154.
