Surmandals

Surmandals, also known as surman or surman's halter, are traditional garments worn by the clergy of the Church of England. They are characterized by their distinctive collar, which is made of a single piece of cloth and is worn around the neck. The collar is typically white and is often adorned with a surman's knot, a decorative knot tied at the back of the collar. The surmandal is usually made of wool and is worn over the clerical collar, which is a separate piece of cloth worn around the neck.

The surmandal is a symbol of the clergy's status and authority within the Church of England. It is worn by bishops, archdeacons, and other high-ranking clergy members. The surmandal is also worn by clergy members during certain liturgical ceremonies, such as the Eucharist, to signify their role as ministers of the sacrament.

The surmandal has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages. It was originally worn by monks and nuns as a symbol of their religious vows. Over time, the surmandal became a symbol of the clergy's authority and was adopted by the Church of England as a part of its liturgical attire.

Today, the surmandal is still worn by clergy members of the Church of England as a symbol of their role and authority within the church. It is a visible reminder of the church's commitment to its liturgical traditions and its commitment to the teachings of the Bible. The surmandal is also a source of pride for many clergy members, who see it as a symbol of their dedication to their faith and their service to the church.