Images(2)

Robe

Object number2016.43.11 a,b

Datec. 1950

MediumFabric; Metal

Credit LineGift of St. Paul of the Cross Monastery

DescriptionBlack fabric floor-length robe with Passionist insignia.DimensionsLength x Width (a): 56 × 25 in. (142.2 × 63.5 cm) [Width is between shoulder seams]
Height x Width x Depth (b): 4.625 × 2.813 × 0.25 in. (11.7 × 7.1 × 0.6 cm)
Inscriptions(b) Black and white embroidered Passionist symbol has text the Latin phrase "JESU XPI / PASSIO", which translates to “The Passion of Jesus Christ”.
Historical NotesSt. Paul of the Cross Monastery is the first site of the Passionist Congregation in North America and has been in operation since the mid-19th century. The original building was erected in 1854 (the cornerstone was laid in 1853) after the Bishop of Pittsburgh, Father Michael O’Connor, helped the order secure property on the South Side owned by the Catholic Diocese. The Passionists were begun by Paolo Daneo, known as St. Paul of the Cross, and were based in Italy for its first century; three of the four founders (Frs. Anthony Calandri, Albinus Magno, Stanislaus Parcyzk, and Brother Lawrence DiGiacomo) of St. Paul of the Cross Monastery came from Italy to America as missionaries. The Passionists are dedicated to a life of prayer, poverty, penance, and solitude, and proclaim the love of God for us as seen in Jesus’ cross. Traditionally, they wore a habit of black clothing, including a robe and wool mantle with their insignia, which were originally handmade from felt. The Passionists symbol features the Latin phrase JESU XPI PASSIO, which translates to “The Passion of Jesus Christ,” above three nails representative of the nails from Jesus’ crucifixion. This imagery is in line with the mission of the Passionists to promote the remembrance of Christ’s suffering. The insignia also features the cross, which the Passionists value as a symbol of justice and reminder to serve those in the community who bear the cross today. They also wore leather sandals and a belt of their own design and making and a biretta. This ensemble was abandoned for more modern vestments around the time of Vatican II.

Related institution Passionists

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