I have/wear the tab collar from time to time - like at weddings where the wedding party is all dressed up (tux, etc), I think the minister should represent the church well and not look like a wedding guest in just a suit and tie.The collar is great for civic events when the clergy needs to be recognized, and in emergency situations it gets you into places (hospitals, accidents, crime scenes, etc) with a lot less explaining of who you are. The collar is respected on the streets by gang members and police alike.The collar has its place and for people from more formal church backgrounds it is very much a part of their religious identity.It is not a sign of authority, that would be the sash worn when in full regalia.