So… What’s With the Collar?

If you’ve visited Rosebrook and noticed our pastors wearing those white-banded shirts—what’s known as a clerical collar—you might’ve had a few questions. Maybe it reminded you of something more Catholic or Anglican. Or maybe you’ve just never seen it before in a Presbyterian setting. Either way, we’re glad you noticed, and we’d love to explain. Because, like many things in Christian worship, this small piece of clothing carries big meaning.

1. The Collar Is a Sign of Calling, Not Status

The clerical collar isn’t about prestige or authority—it’s about servanthood. It’s worn as a quiet symbol that the person in it has been set apart, not to lord over others, but to serve the church through the ministry of Word and Sacrament. The collar tells the world, “This is someone whose life is not their own.” It’s a visible reminder that the pastor has been called to a life of humility, self-sacrifice, and shepherding. It doesn’t elevate the person—it points beyond them to the One they serve.

2. It Removes Distractions and Personal Branding

We live in a time when everything—including church leadership—can feel overly personalized. From trendy outfits to Instagram personas, it’s easy for the pastor to become the center of attention. But just like the preaching robe, the clerical collar is designed to decrease the individual and elevate Christ. At Rosebrook, the collar helps communicate that the pastor isn’t up front to promote himself—he’s there to faithfully point others to Jesus. It de-emphasizes fashion and personal style so that what matters most—the gospel—can shine more clearly.

3. It Offers a Visible Presence in Public Spaces

You’ll sometimes see our pastors wearing the collar outside of Sunday worship—in hospitals, on neighborhood walks, in times of crisis. And that’s intentional. In those moments, the collar becomes a quiet, visible sign to the world: Here is someone who’s available to listen, to pray, to stand with you. It signals that a minister is nearby—someone you can approach. Whether it’s at a bedside, in a coffee shop, or at a community gathering, the collar reminds people that God’s presence and care is never far away.

4. It Connects Us with the Global and Historic Church

Presbyterians, though distinct in many ways, are part of the broader Christian family. The clerical collar was actually a style first adopted by Presbyterians in the 19th century and spread across other Christian traditions (see here). It’s now one small way we share in a visible tradition worn by pastors across denominations and across centuries. Wearing it doesn’t mean we’re trying to mimic another tradition—it means we’re honoring the sacred task that unites all pastors: proclaiming Christ, shepherding the flock, and being present in moments of need. It’s a symbol of continuity and faithfulness that ties us to the wider body of Christ.

So yes—the collar may look unusual at first. But behind that simple white band is a heart to serve, a desire to stay hidden behind the cross, and a pastoral presence that’s available both inside and outside the church walls. If you’re ever curious or want to learn more about our worship practices and the meaning behind them, we’d love to talk. Everything we do—whether it’s what we wear or how we serve—is meant to reflect the love, humility, and glory of Jesus.