TNH: Do you think that, during your archiepiscopal tenure, traditional clerical attire like the cassock could be changed, or be replaced altogether with a gray or black suit?
[Archbishop] CHRISTODOULOS: We have discussed the issue many times during Synodal meetings, but I see that our people want priests to wear cassocks. I am afraid that, if the Church decides priests should get rid of the cassock, there would be a negative reaction among the Greek people. You must realize also that it is a matter of prudence on the part of the Church leadership not to proceed with certain decisions that could lead to division among the people.
TNH: Even if you inform and educate people that the cassock was not always the official outfit of the clergy?
CHRISTODOULOS: It is a theoretical matter, which we have studied, but the people do not see that there is a necessity to change traditional clerical attire. We have also asked the priests themselves to tell us if they think the cassock is an obstacle in preventing them from carrying out their mission and ministry, and their answer is no. - Source