Many congregations remain divided between traditional and contemporary styles, but in most places the contemporary appears to have gained the upper hand.
What’s more, our worship services have become increasingly relaxed and informal affairs. You can see it in what we wear. Church for today’s worshipers is not a dress-up event. Whatever is clean and comfortable seems sufficient. Christian students in particular have been taught by their seniors — or has it been the reverse?— that when it comes to church, attire doesn’t much matter. They understand there is nothing particularly spiritual about a dress or a coat and tie. God is scarcely impressed by such things. “People look at the outward appearance,” we are reminded, “but the LORD looks at the heart” (1 Sam. 16:7).
I do not intend to wade into the broader debate over worship styles; that’s a different discussion.
Over the last several generations, American attire in general has lurched dramatically toward the informal. You will never go wrong with a shift, an A-line or a wrap dress.
I still like the idea of dressing up when you go to church out of reverence and respect. I believe everyone should express themselves, but we must raise our own expectations of ourselves.
Looking at the wardrobe choices today at Meagan and Harry’s wedding you are reminded that we are called to worship and praise with the best that we have to offer.
Leave a Reply