Standards for Men Although the Church has not provided a universal standard for men’s clothing, still, some guidelines can be found. In May 1946 the Canadian Bishops directed these words on modesty to men: “Man himself does not escape from the inclination of exhibiting his flesh: some go in public, stripped to the waist, or in very tight trousers or in very scanty bathing suits. They thus commit offences against the virtue of modesty. They may also be an occasion of sin (in thought or desire) for our neighbour.” What would seem to be the more urgent problem in regard to men’s dress is the fact that it has become overly casual, even in church. The ideal form of dress for men in most contexts is loose fitting shirts and slacks. Long, loose fitting shorts are acceptable for sports, hiking and certain types of work. Casual clothes and shirts with slogans should not be worn in church. Consequently the following are to be ruled out • Tight trousers or tight shorts. • Short shorts. (This image is a digital recreation using the translation of an actual sign on the door of the church in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy, in the days of St Pio of Pietrelcina, circa 1960) 100
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