A Brief History of COGIC and Where to Find COGIC Vestments
Dec 2nd 2022
The Church of God in Christ (COGIC) is a Pentecostal-Holiness Christian denomination founded by Bishop Charles Harrison Mason in 1897. Ever since, the church has been dedicated to spreading spiritual strength and love throughout the United States and beyond. COGIC continues to have a large presence in many parts of the world, with an estimated six million members worldwide.
COGIC pastors are known for their distinctive vestments - featuring regalia such as ornate collars, oversized bishop hats and vibrant robes - which signify their commitment to serving God and their congregations. In addition to providing powerful testimonies through sermon delivery, these revered leaders also lend support to various social causes in local communities while encouraging individuals to share time with God.
Here we will take a look at the history of COGIC (The Church of God in Christ) and where anyone looking for COGIC class A vestments and other clergy wear can find these garments with ease.
A Legacy Honoring God
Charles Harrison Mason was born a slave in 1864. After emancipation, he pursued a career as a minister, eventually founding the Church of God in Christ in 1897. Mason was highly influenced by the Holiness movement, which emphasized personal salvation and sanctification. He dedicated his life to spreading the gospel and helping those in need, establishing COGIC as one of the largest Christian denominations in the world.
Today COGIC stands as a denomination distinguished by its passion and its works - a body that truly honors Christ and practices what it stands for.
The COGIC Community
Beautiful and vibrant, the COGIC community is known for tight-knit family-orientated traditions and events that have been ongoing for decades - many since the founding of the denomination.
One of the most significant traditions maintained by COGIC is their annual convocation. This event - typically held in Memphis, Tennessee - attracts hundreds of thousands of participants and celebrates the church's accomplishments over the past year. The convocation also provides an opportunity for COGIC members to fellowship with one another, receive spiritual instruction and hear from powerful speakers.
COGIC's commitment to community outreach is also evident in the work they do throughout the year. From feeding the hungry to providing shelter for those in need, this church does all they can to help those who are struggling. They also offer a variety of programs and services specifically tailored to meet the needs of children and families.
By upholding faith-based values and adhering to traditions that celebrate service and compassion, COGIC has become one of the most respected and influential Christian denominations.
The COGIC Class A Vestment
COGIC clergy are instantly recognizable, as this is a denomination known for the elegance and class of its rituals and garments.
The COGIC class A vestment is one of the most formal and ornate types of robes worn by COGIC pastors. It is typically made of rich fabrics such as velvet or silk, and is adorned with intricate details including embroidery and sequins. This vestment is reserved for the most special occasions, such as major religious celebrations or funerals.
Here at Divinity Clergy Wear we carry official class A vestments that are approved for use in COGIC services and events. Our vestments are known for their high degree of quality and attention to detail - all critical elements when dressing for occasions as important as delivering God’s Word.
Each of our meticulously crafted class A vestments comes with:
- The Traditional Black Anglican Cassock
- A Black Matching Cincture Belt
- White Surplice with Traditional Clerical Lace
- A Black Tippet
- A Black 36 Inch Cord
- A Silver 2 x 3 Cross
The traditional garb of COGIC clergy hasn’t changed much over the years. These garments are - much like other Christian denominations - meant to be an outward reflection of holiness and spirituality. For those who honor God by delivering His Word, these garments help clergy feel empowered and centered, able to stand and speak with confidence and grace.
We also are proud to carry a wide variety of other clergy garments that are suitable for COGIC services - including bishop and apostle attire, clergy kurtas, clergy vests and suits, overseer attire, cassocks, and sets as well. When it comes to COGIC clergy wear, we are the best location online to shop.
With a history as rich and intricate as COGIC, we encourage those interested to read some of the other resources available here at Divinity Clergy Wear.
We have a guide on the standards for Class A Vestments as well as the meaning behind clergy vestments. If you are searching for a specific kind of vestment and don’t see it in our listings, please reach out to us at 609-838-7154 and we will help you find what you’re looking for!