The pastor’s vestment teaches an important spiritual lesson.
The robe, which is called an alb, is designed to cover the pastor’s body and clothing, taking the focus off of the pastor and reminding worshipers that he is a representative of God. The white robe also reminds us of the robe of righteousness that Christ has wrapped around us.
Why does the pastor wear that colored cloth over his shoulders but the vicar doesn’t?
That colored cloth is called a stole. The stole is a historical symbol of the pastoral ministry. It is a reminder to the pastor and the congregation of the yoke of humble service that God has placed upon his shoulders. When the vicar is ordained into the pastoral ministry, he will then begin wearing the stole.