A parish church traditionally has three main areas: nave, chancel and sanctuary. Many modern parish churches are moving away from the traditional patterns to accommodate new forms of worship.
The Nave- the main body of the church, holding seats for the congrgation.
On the backs of the pews or seats a small ledge provides a place for the worshipper's prayerbook or Bible. Hassocks or kneelers [small cushions] are provided for people to kneel on during prayers, if they so wish. Others prefer to sit for prayers.
The font, pulpit and lectern are normally situated in the nave, and a vestry, for the clergy and choir to robe in, is often entered from the nave.
The Chancel- the area where the clergy and choir sit. A screen often separates the nave and the chancel. It emphasises the mystery and holiness of the Eucharist or Holy Communion. Above this screen hung a large cross or 'rood'. Many 'rood screens' were removed during the Reformation and few remain intact today.
The Sanctuary- a railed-off area where the altar is found. It is thought of as a particularly sacred place in the church, as the bread and wine are consecrated [or blessed] here during Holy Communion. The worshippers come to the altar rail to kneel [ or often these days, to stand], and receive the bread and wine.
Above the altar may be a beautiful reredos [ a painting, carving or mosaic] filling the wall above the altar and below the large stained-glass windows in the east wall. |
