Parish Churches are found throughout England Wales and Scotland Despite their different ages, shapes and sizes the contents of one church are remarkably similar to those of another The items you see described here could probably be found in most Church of England buildings

Just inside the main door it is likely that you will find THE FONT Water is placed in the bowl The font is used for baptisms The act of baptism signifies entry into the church

Moving into the church The congregation is going to need somewhere to sit. These wooden seats are called PEWS

So what can the congregation see from where they sit on the pews? THE ALTAR This church has two altars. The altar is the focal point of the worship. It is where the Eucharist or Holy Communion is celebrated

LECTERN Really it’s just a book rest on a pedestal Made out of wood or metal - often in the shape of a bird It is from here that lessons from the Bible are read.

Guess what comes next ! Try the pulpit

PULPIT This raised enclosed platform is a feature of just about every parish church It is from here that a member of the clergy or another person will deliver the SERMON

Moving further east into the church one eventually comes to the area known as THE SANCTUARY Here one would find the main altar and other distinctive features of a church

ALTAR EAST WINDOW CANDLE STICKS SEDILIA ALTAR RAIL

Tabernacle for the reserved sacrament

Here we have a closer look at the Tabernacle It is here that the consecrated bread and wine are kept

A worshipper may wish to light a votive candle in front of this statue of The Virgin Mary

Or before a statue of one of Jesus’ Apostles

In this part of the church a penitent may make his confession to a priest MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION

Back to GCSE page Pictures by Colin