Features of churches
Churches and chapels have many different internal features, which are designed to help people worship. The features and layout of different denominations can differ somewhat.
Catholic churches
Catholic churches are traditionally built in the shape of a cross with the top of the cross facing Jerusalem.
The east end of the church is called the The part of a Christian church around the altar; the holiest part of the church. and contains:
- the A table used for Eucharist, Mass, Lord鈥檚 Supper. Some denominations refer to it as a Holy Table or Communion Table. 鈥 a table where the bread and wine are blessed during the A service celebrating the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, using elements of bread and wine.
- the A stand supporting the Bible, often in the shape of an eagle, in a church. 鈥 a stand where the Bible is read from
- the An elevated, enclosed platform in a church where the minister or priest will stand to give a sermon. 鈥 where the priest delivers sermons
- a A Christian aid to worship that recalls Jesus's death and resurrection. A crucifix has the body of Christ on it, but a cross is plain. 鈥 a cross with Jesus on
There is a rail which acts to separate the sanctuary from the place where the congregations sits, known as the The main part of a church where the congregation sits in rows on benches or pews.. In the nave there are often rows of A bench in a church. where the congregation sit in rows on benches.
Around the church there are 14 framed pictures, known as the A series of pictures, carvings or images in 14 steps showing and commemorating Jesus' journey to the cross before his crucifixion., which show the events of Jesus鈥 crucifixion.
Other features that can be found in the Catholic Church include:
- a A stone basin used to baptise babies using holy (consecrated) water. 鈥 a large stone bowl containing holy water used to baptise babies
- a A small basin containing holy water, which Catholics dip their hand in to make the sign of the cross to renew their baptism promises. 鈥 usually a small basin containing holy water, which Catholics dip their hand in to make the sign of the cross to renew their baptism promises
- statues of religious figures, eg Christ, Mary or saints
- stained glass windows 鈥 often depicting biblical stories or religious teachings
- candles 鈥 often lit by Catholics when they are praying
- an organ to be played during hymn singing
- a confessional 鈥 a small enclosed cupboard or cabinet, where Catholics can confess their sins to the priest
Anglican churches
The inside of Anglican churches can be similar in appearance to Catholic churches. Anglican churches are also often in the shape of a cross, with a sanctuary at the east end.
Anglican churches are often a lot plainer than Catholic churches, and have fewer statues and candles.
An Anglican church will usually have a simple cross displayed rather than a crucifix. Although there may be a font, there won't be a stoup containing holy water.
