Pulpit gown

[4] It is often constructed from heavy material and features velvet facings running over the neck and down the front, mimicking the tippet or stole sometimes worn over it.

Contemporary choir robes are distinct from the Geneva gown, usually made with lighter and colorful fabrics and large open sleeves.

Less typically a minister may wear white gloves when distributing elements of the Lord's Supper, a practice predating the advent of stainless steel chalices and communion trays.

The Protestant Reformers objected to the theology of ordination in Roman Catholic Church and its prescribed priestly vestments.

Andreas Karlstadt was the first to wear his black academic gown during the liturgy rather than contemporary clerical dress.

In all cases, the denomination allows for local discretion or makes no official statement:[8] For historical and theological reasons the gown is most typical of Congregational, Presbyterian and Reformed churches, that is those congregations primarily influenced by Calvinist formulations of Christian doctrine and church order.

The typical clerical dress of an Anglican minister during the 18th century was a cassock, Geneva gown, and neck bands.

In the Presbyterian Church of Scotland, it is normal for the Geneva gown to be vented (opened at the front), sleeveless, and worn over a cassock.

Some rabbis and spiritual leaders of other non-Christian faiths have fashioned their modern religious garb patterned after the historic Geneva gown.

This has the effect of minimizing distinction between pastor and laity, encouraging a casual atmosphere common for the seeker sensitive movement.