06/18/2026
Are you curious?
I offer this post in case anyone would like to know more about why things are the way they are in our churches.
Have you noticed that many Anglicans today can identify the altar, but struggle to name other parts of the church? Are you curious about the difference between the nave and the chancel? Why the font stands near the entrance, why the lectern is shaped like an eagle, and why churches traditionally face east?
The Anglican church building was never designed merely for convenience. It was built to teach theology, tell the story of salvation, and direct worshippers towards God.
The Nave is where the congregation gathers. The name comes from the Latin word, "navis" which means "ship". It symbolises the Church as the Ark of Salvation carrying God's people through the storms of life.
The Chancel is the area around the altar. It means a screen that historically separated the nave from the area where choir and clergy stay. Historically, it was reserved for the clergy and choir. It symbolises the heavenly realm and reminds worshippers that they are drawing nearer to the presence of God.
The Sanctuary is the holiest part of the church where the altar stands. It represents God's dwelling place among His people and points to both the Temple of Jerusalem, which is in theEast, and the heavenly worship described in Scripture.
The Altar or Holy Table is the focal point of Anglican worship. It symbolises Christ's sacrifice, Christ's presence among His people, and the heavenly banquet to which all believers are invited.
The Pulpit was traditionally elevated so that the preacher could be clearly seen and heard. It symbolises the authority of God's Word and the ministry of preaching.
The Lectern is where the Scriptures are read. In many Anglican churches it is shaped like an eagle, and it's deliberate. The eagle symbolises the spreading of the Gospel throughout the world and the soaring nature of God's Word.
The Font is from Katin word "fontis", whcih means fountain. It is usually located near the main entrance of the church. This is intentional. Baptism is the doorway into the Christian life and into the fellowship of the Church.
The Vestry is where clergy and servers prepare for worship. Historically, it was also the place where parish records and sacred vessels were kept, and where church administration meetings are held.
The Church Bell was not merely used to tell time. It called the faithful to prayer, announced important events, and reminded the surrounding community of God's presence.
Many traditional Anglican churches were built facing east. The east symbolises the Resurrection, the rising sun, and the Christian hope of Christ's return.
Even the arrangement of the furniture carried meaning. The north side was known as the Gospel Side, while the south side was known as the Epistle Side. Every position had a purpose and every object told a story.
Which Anglican tradition, symbol, or practice do you think is disappearing in our generation?
What part of the Anglican architecture do you need more explanation for?
