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Why is the church so rigid about priests wearing tonia/galabaya? Why can't a priest wear a black pair of pants and a black shirt? This way, more people might feel welcomed or comfortable coming to a Coptic Church. Times are changing.

The clergy robes are simple and traditional. Priests and monks are set apart from the people for their special purposeful life of prayer. The priestly or monastic garb is not intended to make a fashion statement, nor attract or distract any individual. Its wideness gives a message of acceptance to everybody and the big heart that every clergy should have.