The Theology of Black
The contrasting colors of black and white worn by royal women when meeting the Roman Pontiff carry deep theological and historical significance. The Theology of Black: Humility, Reverence, and the Norm Queen Camilla, as the spouse of the sovereign of the United Kingdom, is a Protestant queen and must adhere to the traditional protocol of the Vatican. 1. The Norm: Black (The Tenebrae) For centuries, the traditional, rigorous dress code for women in a formal papal audience, whether royal or not, required black attire. Theological Meaning: Humility and Mourning: The color black signifies humility, piety, and penitence. Historically, it was worn as a sign of mourning, reflecting a spiritual sense of penitence for sin and reverence before the Vicar of Christ. The somber color is intended to ensure that no one's attire distracts from the sacred nature of the visit with the Holy Father. The Protocol: Modesty: The dress itself must also be modest: a high neckline, ...