This October a rather unusual fashion show is taking place at St John’s Church in Frome. Instead of featuring the latest fashions and models ‘Fashionable Faith’ will showcase the history of ecclesiastical vestments worn by members of the congregation.
The idea is to learn more about the vestment’s meaning and purpose. The idea came to St John’s after recent growth in the congregation meant more and more people were asking about the meaning and symbolism of the vestments they use. Revd Seamus, the vicar said “People are often asking about the robes worn in worship. They want to learn more about it, so I thought why not have a catwalk where we can explain what all these things mean and what they represent as people are looking at the items.” It's hoped people who are interested in the history of the vestments, the church as well as those who would like to see the workmanship and needlework used to create them will also enjoy the fashion show.
The exhibition will cover the history and symbolism of the vestments, Seamus says, “We will look at things like colour, the history of how these clothes evolved, what their theological significance is. There will be a little bit about the specific history of individual items from St Johns. Among the pieces to be shown is a black stole that originally was a preaching scarf, dating from the time of Vicar Bennett, a former priest of St John’s who was part of the early catholic movement within the Church of England.
Seamus says, “This garment is quite significant because it shows how they started off tying to make the established vestments look a bit more formal, and then slowly moved towards introducing different colours. We’re hoping some who are interested in textiles and sewing may want to come as well as others from around the diocese who are interested in the history of the church.”
The models for the show are all volunteers from St John’s congregation. Seamus says he was surprised by how many wanted to be a part of it. “We’ve had young people who are involved in drama and art and some retired priests, as well as members of the congregation who want to try something different.”
The exhibition will be free to visit from 10am to 2pm, with tickets for the catwalk and talk from 2pm available from St John’s Church or online from Eventbrite.