Stole Continued - The origin of the Stole is pre-Christian but since the sixth Century it has been prescribed to be worn by all clergy. In the seventh Century the Orarium, or Stole, was worn by all ministers celebrating worship services and was worn crossed over the alb, secured in place by the girdle. When worn by a deacon, the modern Stole is nearest to its original form, resting on the left shoulder, symbolic of the towel or napkin from which it evolved, and under the right arm leaving the right side free of encumbrance to attend to Sacramental duties.. The Stole is the symbol of the Preacher. It is thinner in width than the tippet.