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Hello - I was wondering if anyone knew the history of the decline of headcoverings in Church for non-Anabaptist women. I'm just curious how it all came about, I think it must've occured before the 1960's & the rise of feminism. By headcoverings I would even include hats, even though I know that is not how they are defined by the Anabaptists, but I know many women wore hats during Church services, but even this has practice has passed away. I know some Catholics still wear veils. Thank you in advance.
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I appreciate your question. I had difficulty finding documented information to respond to it, but I will give some general information. I am open for anyone else to give additional information.
From the Civil war until World War I the veiling was dropped culturally, and most Christians dropped it during this time.
From 1890 – 1920 the veiling was lost in most of the churches. The Catholics, however, continued to expect their women to be veiled during worship services. For a period of time the ushers would have veils with them to hand to women who came without one, so they would be veiled during the service.
As the culture changed for women to no longer wear a veil, slowly most churches no longer observed the wearing of it either. Since 1961 the wearing of the veil, with few exceptions, has been dropped.
We, however, believe the teachings of Scripture, including 1 Cor. 11, are valid for all times and cultures.
Lloyd Gingerich
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