If Jesus said, "When you pray ....etc. .....Our Father, which art in ..." -Why the fancy robes and services?

The clergy class was an invention of the Catholic Church, where the church officals were clotherd in fancy robes to distinguish themselves from the common folk. The early Christians did not involve themselves in vestments and other fancy clothes when they prayed before the congregation. As Jesus said to his followers at Matt. 23:8: "All you are brothers."

In that particular instance, Jesus was speaking against the habit of the Pharisees of standing in the market place where everybody could see them and pray mainly to reinforce their reputations of being holy men.

Jesus was talking about personal, private prayer in that instance.

Jesus also said that community prayer was vital: "Where 2 or 3 are gathered in my name, I will be there among them."

The "fancy robes" and services in my church (Catholic) are to show respect and reverance to the One we are there to worship. Personally, I wouldn't care if the priest was in an alb or in blue jeans with a Nine Inch Nails tee shirt. But some people need/want the satin and silk and pomp. I don't begrudge them that, if that's what they need to focus on God.

It might not be for you, either. If not, why worry about it?

All the Church leadership in all the churches I have ever attended wear regular clothes.. I think your talking about catholics... Hope that helped..God bless you !

men corrupt the teaching of God. we need to worship God in spirit and truth. Jesus condemned the Pharisees for their rules and laws.

We are not required to wear anything special or sit or stand or close our eyes or leave them opened. man has made up a bunch of stuff through tradition.

matter of respect