What Are the Parts of a Church Building Called?

Historically, church buildings have followed a specific pattern based upon the cross. The church basically is divided into two areas, the nave, where worshipers are allowed and the presbytery, which is restricted to the clergy. Some areas are found only in Catholic or Orthodox churches, but there are certain areas that are present in every church, and they usually follow a specific relationship to each other. Modern churches may seem more streamlined than these examples, but you can still see the ghost of the original designs in even the most modern church. Each of the parts described are frequently broken down into separate parts, with separate titles, but this varies by church and denomination.

Vestibule and Baptistry

The vestibule is the entrance to the church. This area is to help elevate the mind before entering the main church. The baptistry is usually placed near the entrance to the church,symbolizing the purpose of the ceremony, which is to admit the person into full membership in the congregation.

Congregational Seating

This is the area where the worshipers sit in the pews. It may be ringed by displays of the Stations of the Cross. It may also have confessional booths along the sides.

Chancel and Transepts

The chancel contains the lectern, the priest's seat and prayer stall and the pulpit. The chancel also contains the choir area. Transepts are areas that project out of the chancel on either side so that the floor area of the church resembles a cross. They may contain chapels or statuary.

Sanctuary and Apse

The sanctuary contains the altar, usually on an elevation to the rest of the church. Behind the sanctuary may be a semicircular area holding a chapel. This is known as an apse.

Sacristy

The sacristy is a side room holding the tools, books and vestments needed by priests. There is usually a small chapel and altar. A sink, the sacrarium, drains directly into the earth and is used to wash the priests' hands.

Ambulatory

Found in larger churches, like cathedrals, the outer area in the church around the rear of the presbytery is the ambulatory and is usually ringed with side altars.

References

• Rev. Ken Collins' Website
• Parts of a Church - A Glossary
• Inside Your Church