One question, four answers

Jenny Mills
‘It doesn’t define me, it identifies me’

When I was nearing the end of my ministerial formation and had been called to serve a pastorate and a charity, I began to think seriously about dress as a minister. I had been adamant throughout my training that I would not wear a clerical collar as my actions and words should speak clearly enough. But in conversations with friends, both within and without the church, it became clear that it was not that simple….

Jenny Mills is Deputy General Secretary (Discipleship) for the United Reformed Church

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Frin Lewis-Smith
‘Covid upended my wardrobe’

As a brand new minister I was against clerical wear. I reasoned that we have authority, or lose it, through word and action, we gain or waste respect through our relationships and behaviour. Clergywear felt like cosplay, trying on menswear outfits from another era. I did own a jersey knit shirt and dog collar, and donned it when representing the church in court tribunals and wedding services. Wearing these felt like playing dressing up. Surely word, action and relationship were the real clothing of ministry?…

Frin Lewis-Smith is a hospital chaplain at Salford Royal Foundation Trust

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Andy Jackson
‘Why wouldn’t you want to be recognised?’

We take it for granted when we see someone in a hi-vis vest or a uniform that the person knows what they are doing, be they on a building site, patrolling a street, next to a railway line, or serving you in a high street café or shop.

We instantly recognise that they are competent in their job and approachable, as we do with police officers, staff at railway stations, medical staff and ministers of religion…

Andy Jackson is the URC Head of Communications and writes in a personal capacity

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Maria J Y Lee
‘It signifies my connection to the community’

As I sifted through my wardrobe, the question ‘What should I wear?’ became a simple choice when I found my clerical shirt, especially for Sunday service. During the week, I also enjoy selecting from a range of colourful clerical shirts for various community activities, and I even feel a bit stylish in them. I’m particularly excited to wear a cheerful pink cotton one with dungarees for the toddler group – it’s a delight to interact with them. Many of the mums and carers often comment on my clothing choices…

Maria J Y Lee is a minister in the United Reformed Church Bolton and Salford Missional Partnership

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This is an extract from an article published in the Issue 2 – 2025 edition of Reform

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