The Deacon’s Dalmatic

It is a deacon’s dalmatic! A liturgical vestment worn typically by deacons in various denominations during certain ceremonies. It is a long, wide-sleeved tunic that can vary in color according to the liturgical season or specific feast day. When it is worn? The dalmatic is typically worn during Mass and other solemn liturgies, with a stole underneath, it is typically a part of the formal attire that highlights the significance of the occasion and the role of the deacon within it.

First recorded uses… The dalmatic has ancient origins, dating back to at least the 4th century. Initially, senators and consuls wore it as a Roman garment. The Christian church adopted it as a liturgical garment for deacons by the 5th century.

Who wears it today? Deacons across various Christian denominations, including the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, Episcopal, and some Lutheran churches, wear the dalmatic today. In certain traditions, bishops may also wear it underneath their chasuble during pontifical high Mass, symbolizing their diaconal ordination.