Church Building - Terms

The church is one building but it consists of many parts.  Here are some of the terms used by architects to describe some of the component areas of the church building.

	Nave: The main chamber of the church where the congregation gathers.
	Transept: The transept is perpendicular to the nave and, with the nave, forms a cross.
	Crossing: Where the Nave and the Transept intersect.
	Chancel: Where the clergy, ministers, lectors, servers sit during mass.  The chancel is usually one or more steps above the level of the nave.
	Sanctuary: Another step or more above the Chancel. The Altar and Tabernacle are in this area.  This area is reserved for priests and deacons.
	Narthex: The entry area at the main entrance to the church.  It is not officially part of the church proper.