In the Middle Ages, the abbots were often treated in the same way as bishops and many directors of a monastery also led a diocese as "abbot-bishop". 
This tradition is the reason why up to present times the abbot of a monastery is entitled to wear the bishop's insignia in the service, especially the bishop's headgear, the mitre.
 

Pfeil runterMitre

Mitre of the first Archabbot of St. Ottilien, Norbert Weber (+1956).

 

Pfeil runterAbbot's crosier

The crosier of bishops and abbots is a "shepherd's crook", symbolizing the responsibility of leading a monastic community or a diocese. The crosier presented shows a statuette of the "Good Shepherd" meaning Jesus Christ.

 

Pfeil runterPectoral cross

The pectoral cross of abbots and bishops also indicates Jesus Christ. 
In accordance with the Rule of St. Benedict the abbot is Christ's representative and should not only be recognized by the community as such but to direct his monastery likewise. The exhibition showed the pectoral cross of St. Ottilien's second Archabbot Chrysostomus Schmid (+1962). 

Pfeil runterEcclesiastical ring

Norbert Weber's ecclesiastical ring represents the bond between an abbot and his community. 
The presented ring shows his arms, a ship sailing towards a star on the sea with a cross below.

Pfeil runterPontifical shoes and gloves

Up to the Second Vatican Council special hand clothing and shoes were customary for pontifical services. 
The exhibited red pontifical gloves embroidered with a prayer and pontifical shoes are from the Archabbey's sacristy. 

 

Pfeil runterPontifical "throne"

The abbot had his own "pontifical throne" in the church. 
The pontifical seat also belonged to Norbert Weber. The backrest is embroidered with his arms and the verse "Ave maris stella", the first words of the hymn on Marian feast days as interpretation of the ship motif.