dalmatica

The dalmatica, or dalmatic, is a liturgical vestment traditionally worn by deacons in many Western Christian churches. In the Roman Catholic Church, the dalmatic is worn over the alb and under the stole during the celebration of the Eucharist and certain other services. It is also used by deacons in many Anglican, Lutheran, and some other Protestant communities, while it is seldom worn by priests or bishops. The garment signals the deacon’s distinct liturgical role in presenting the gifts and assisting at the altar.

Design and appearance commonly describe the dalmatic as a long tunic with wide sleeves, reaching to the knees or below. It is typically worn belted or cinched at the waist and may feature decorative embroidery, crosses, or other liturgical motifs. The color of the dalmatic follows the liturgical calendar, aligning with the season or feast being celebrated, such as white for major celebrations or violet for periods of penance. Variations exist between denominations and historical periods, but the overall form remains recognizable as an outer, sleeves-waning garment worn over the alb.

Etymology and history trace the term to Latin dalmaticus, from Greek dalmatikē, with scholarly agreement that the name ultimately reflects a cultural influence associated with the Eastern Mediterranean or Dalmatia. The dalmatic appears in medieval and Renaissance liturgical practice as the standard deacon’s vestment and remains part of some contemporary rites, though its use varies by church and region. In many modern contexts, the dalmatic serves both liturgical function and symbolic identification of the deacon’s role in worship.