Object

Father Thomas Cavanaugh's Liturgical Stole

A narrow, scarf‑like liturgical vestment—likely silk with embroidered crosses and subtle gold threading—worn draped over the shoulders and hanging down the front. Father Cavanaugh produces and dons it deliberately, the fabric whispering as he settles into the sacramental posture. Characters react with solemn restraint: Bartlet kneels beneath it, Charlie and C.J. step back, and the stole becomes the immediate, tactile marker of a private religious rite inside the Oval Office.

2 appearances

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S1E14 · Take This Sabbath Day

Midnight Confession in the Oval

Father Cavanaugh removes and dons his stole before hearing the President's confession; the stole concretizes the sacramental act, converting the Oval into a temporary confessional and lending liturgical authority to the moment.

Before: Held by Father Cavanaugh, not yet worn, symbolic of pastoral readiness.

After: Worn by Father Cavanaugh as he hears the confession; remains in use for the sacramental rite.

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S1E14 · Take This Sabbath Day

Confession at Midnight

Father Cavanaugh produces and dons his stole before hearing Bartlet's confession; the stole signals the opening of sacramental space inside an otherwise political room and concretely transfers the priestly role into the Oval's drama.

Before: Folded or stowed on Father Cavanaugh until he pulls it out.

After: Draped over Father Cavanaugh's shoulders for the duration of the confession ritual.

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