A screen capture from 'In Bruges'
-In Reference to the Catholic Church, as Thompson was raised Catholic-
The stole itself is a symbol of authority worn to display that a priest has indeed received his holy orders.
Violet is chosen for the priest's stole during the time of confession because it is recognized as the colour of penance and reconciliation, which is also why it is worn during times such as Lent. (Interesting side note- in the Catholic cardinal sins, violet is also the colour associated with the sin of Pride).
The Violet stole is worn during all administrations of penance as well as the first section of baptismal functions. In some cases -particularly the Byzantine church, priests will drape the confessing with the stole as a symbol of God's mercy.
-A priest is expected to wear the stole during regular confession however if the confession is of urgent matter, it is not necessarily voided if the priest is 'un-stoled' or 'un-surpliced'
-I've seen that Catholic priests will wear a white surplice over a black cassock and a violet stole during confession, such as in the image that Jo posted earlier. As to regards of the formality of this vestment, I've had mixed reviews.The black cassock is not a vestment, it's purpose only serves a traditional function, which is why we see some priests in a black shirt and trousers. If we are referring to a Roman Catholic cassock, the garment will be adorned with a single line of buttons down the front of the garment -it must not be double breasted or it is considered Anglican.
-The In Bruges confession scene, embedding was disabled by request (it is graphic and disturbing)
