More About Clergy Stoles  Clergy stoles are often made in many different fabrics.  They vary in length. The ends of the clergy stole can be  straight or flared out to a wider width. There are different  styles available and they can be used on their own or as  part of as set. Clergy wear the stole with the centre flat against the back  of the neck. This allows the long ends to drape down the  wearer's body in a parallel fashion. Depending on the  denomination, there may be other specific variations to  how the stole may be worn. Clergy stoles are plain or decorated with religious  symbols. Hand embroidery is very traditional and machine  embroidery stoles are available as a cheaper alternative.  Different colours, also know as liturgical colours, are also  used. They signify various seasons in the church, such as  a white stole being used for Christmas services. However,  some denominations also use separate colours to  differentiate between ranks or degrees held.   Originally, the clergy stole was a larger shawl that covered  more of the body. Over time, it became narrower, with  richer ornamentation to indicate a mark of respect or  dignity for the wearer. Most agree that the stole used today  has history in the Imperial offices of the Roman Empire,  where similar stoles were used to designate rank and  honour. The origin of the stole is pre-Christian but since the sixth  century it has been prescribed to be worn by all the clergy.  In the seventh century the stole was worn by all priests  celebrating mass and was worn crossed over in front of  the alb, secured in place by the girdle.  Welcome Welcome to our website for clergy stoles. We specialise in hand embroidery and stock  many clergy stoles that are ready to be sold. Religious symbols include crosses, lamb &  banner, chi rho, fish, alpha & omega, doves, and much more. Thai silk stoles can be made  in over 100 colours. Watch this space for many other fabrics.  Plain clergy stoles start from just £39. Made in Thai silk, fully lined, and with a hand  embroidered neck cross. Pictured on the right is a white Thai Silk clergy stole. Scroll over  it to see a green stole. We offer free UK shipping on all clergy stoles and free returns. Our website is easy to use  and check out is fast as you only need to enter your postcode.  Church Crafts UK. Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan. CF63 2AW. ©2010 White Clergy Stoles Red Clergy Stoles Purple Clergy Stoles Green Clergy Stoles Clergy Stoles Sitemap Clergy Stoles Twitter • Traditionally Made Clergy Stoles • All Embroidery Done By Hand • Many Colours To Choose From • Custom Work Always Undertaken • Full 14 Day Money Back Guarantee • Quick Delivery - Clergy Stoles In Stock • Paypal Verified Business • VeriSign Secure Shopping Cart • Quick Worldwide Shipping • World Class Service Site Links More Information About Us Church Crafts UK manufactures and sells clergy stoles,  clerical clothing, and church supplies. We have over 40  years experience in this industry. We offer fast  worldwide shipping. Visit us on twitter for the latest  news and offers for clergy stoles Special Offers Terms & Conditions Recommended Sites Clerical Shirts & Blouses Communion Sets & Silver Embroidered Emblems