Cope - Definition and Overview

(This page is about religious garments. For the evolutionary principle, see Cope's law and for its originator see Edward Drinker Cope).

The cope is a liturgical vestment which may be worn by any rank of the clergy. Copes are made in all liturgical colours, and are like a very long mantle or cloak, fastened at the breast by a clasp.

Western usage

In the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches the cope may be worn by any rank of the clergy (- or indeed the laity, as it is not a vestment in the strictest sense of the word). If worn by a bishop it should be accompanied by a Mitre. It is generally worn by the Officiant at Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, at Vespers and at the Asperges at the end of a funeral service. Its use is generally prescribed for processions, and at any solemn ceremony at which the chasuble is not worn. In the Sarum Rite, the Cope was also prescribed for members of the choir at various times. The often highly ornamented clasp is called a morse.