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  • A cassock is a long, robe-like garment worn by Catholic clergy. It's also worn by clergy in other Christian denominations, including the Anglican and Lutheran churches.

  • Appearance: A traditional cassock is ankle-length, full-length, and often one color. It has long sleeves, a button-down front, and a high collar. It's typically worn with a white clerical collar.

  • Purpose: A cassock symbolizes priesthood commitment, modesty, and unity during religious ceremonies. It protects the clergy from the weather.

  •  History: The term cassock comes from the Middle French word casque, which means "long coat." It evolved from simple Roman tunics. It was originally the everyday dress of European clergy and laity.

  • Color and trim: In the Roman Catholic church, the color and trim of a cassock varies with the wearer's rank. For example, popes wear white, cardinals wear black with red trim, and lesser clergy wear plain black

  • Other names: The cassock is also called a soutane.

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