The Pulpit

The vicar will deliver his sermon from the pulpit. 

Note that it is not at the front of the church in this case. This shows that although the sermon and the vicar are important they are not the most important thing. The altar still retains the most important position.

 In some Methodist churches you may find the pulpit at the front showing that these Christians place more importance on preaching. [click to view Methodist church]

The Font

Used for baptism, the font at its simplest is a raised bowl. Most churches will have a more ornate design. 

It is often situated near the entrance to the Church, this has symbolic meaning: just as your body enters the church through the door so your soul enters the Church through Baptism.

The beliefs of Christians who have a font in their church include the acceptance of infant baptism.

Baptist Churches often have a pool at the front of the Church to carry out adult baptism (often known as believers baptism). The position of the baptismal pool at the front shows the importance of adult baptism for Baptists. [click to view Baptist Church]

The Pews (seats)

In this church the seats are simple and functional. they face the front to show the importance of the altar.

Quaker meeting houses have the seats arranged so that everyone is equal and no-one is in a position of authority. [click to view Quaker meeting house]

Stained Glass windows

The stained glass window originates from a time where not everyone could read. The pictures would help the priest to explain Bible stories.

The windows also help to bring a sense of the special presence of God into the Church.

Note that, unlike Muslims, Christians will create images of Christ, however the image should not be worshipped.

The Lectern

The lectern is a stand to rest the bible. It is often in the shape of a Golden Eagle this shows that Christians have respect for the Bible.

Graves

Some churches have graves around the outside of them.

This reflects the Christian belief in life after death and the resurrection of the body.

Choir

The Choir Stall are for the Choir. This reflects the importance of music in worship.

Hymns unite the congregation.  They also help followers to remember significant beliefs and help to create an atmosphere of worsip.

The Altar

If the altar is at the front of the church it shows that the bread and wine of the mass (or communion) which represent the body and blood of Jesus significant.

It is the focal point of the building, this stresses the significance of Jesus death and resurrection.

The crucifix is more often found in a Roman Catholic Church. It reflects the belief of Catholics that the suffering of Jesus was important as it explains suffering in the world.

Other churches will have an empty cross this shows that Jesus has risen from the dead which is more important for some Christians.