Question

Hi Gramps.

I have a question about women and hats. I have read that it is acceptable for women to leave on their hats during flag ceremonies, pledge of allegiance, etc. What about church and prayers? My husband and son remove their hats. Should I remove mine as well in church? It makes for “hat hair” which I am sure isn’t the highest priority. Is there a policy here? Thanks.

Kathleen

Answer

Dear Kathleen,

Customs change with the times. In the New Testament times it was the custom for women to remain silent in church meetings.

Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law.

 

And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church (1 Cor 14:34-35).

When praying it was the custom for men to remove their head coverings, and for women to cover their heads.

Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head.

 

But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.

 

For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered (1 Cor 11:4-6).

In our day, customs vary in different parts of the world. So what may be correct and proper in one location would be frowned upon in another. So the rule of thumb is to dress as all the others tend to dress. If there is any doubt about appropriate dress it would be well to consult with your bishop who has the right and authority to establish dress codes and norms in his ward.

Gramps