Question
We are wanting to make a new chasuble and stole for our priest on his anniversary. We understand though that one vestment goes over the other. Which is it?
--Knitting in Knoxville
Answer
In the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 299 it says:
Unless otherwise indicated, [which it has not been since this was promulgated], the chasuble, worn over the alb and stole, is the vestment proper to the priest celebrant at Mass and other rites immediately connected with Mass.
Many like to design fancy stoles that are worn over the chasuble. Designers may like this, or feel that the stole should contrast the chasuble. Most often they are not able to be seen by the congregation. Fancy stoles may be worn over an alb for blessings or minor rites. Stoles hang better underneath a chasuble. Additionally, wearing the stole outside the chasuble duplicates the symbol: both chasuble and stole indicate priestly ministry. Stoles are usually only worn by concelebrants.