preaching band

plural preaching bands

1. in pluralChristianityTwo bands (strips of linen) worn as formal neckwear by members of the Christian clergy.

   When leading worship, Elsie usually wore a long black cassock and preaching bands. This would, of course, save her from the worry of choosing a suitable costume.

   2014, Alan Argent, Elsie Chamberlain: The Independent Life of a Woman Minister, Routledge, →ISBN, page 203

   Synonyms: preaching tabs, Geneva bands

2. collectiveA group of missionaries.

   Perhaps we should form our own preaching band, to avoid compromise with the Christian ethic of brotherhood.

   2019, John Hersey, The Call: An American Missionary in China, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, →ISBN

3. rareentertainmentA Christian band.

   Musicians who identify as being part of a “Christian band,” also referred to as a “preaching band,” argue that “Christians in a band,” Christian musicians who do not call themselves a “Christian band,” are insincere because they keep quiet about their Christianity.

   [2020, Ibrahim Abraham, Christian Punk: Identity and Performance, Bloomsbury Publishing, →ISBN