Cultural influences on structures 

Church councils determine the leadership and structures of the Church. Many of the structures and leadership models of Church have not changed substantially for considerable periods. However, in more recent times in some countries, there is a growing shortage of priests and vocations to the priesthood. Church authorities have been forced to change and consider new ways of sustaining the priestly model of leadership and pastoral support. For example, in Australia in recent times male married deacons have been ordained as permanent deacons in some dioceses. In most large parishes in Australia pastoral and/or management associates have been appointed to attend to matters of liturgy, parish management, pastoral care, adult education, sacramental preparation etc. Previously priests in the parish undertook these jobs. In some parishes in Australia lay people, male and female, lead liturgies on Sunday in the absence of priests. In the future, if such cultural trends continue, the Church will be forced to consider other changes in leadership and structure. 

Designs of churches 

Church architecture and design reflects the beliefs and traditions of the particular assemblies of believers for whom they are built. Many Christian churches use the common cruciform ground-plan. This form and design connects with a very important historical Christian event; the crucifixion of Jesus. 

Some Christian basilicas and cathedrals have endeavoured to recreate the aura of original Israelite temples. For example, many Roman Catholic churches have incorporated ornate art works and sacramental symbolism. In contrast many Protestant churches have limited art works and symbolism within their church buildings. The focal point of many Protestant Churches is the lectern where the Word is proclaimed. 

The external and internal design of a church also reflects its history and culture. Over the centuries church design has reflected the needs of the people and aesthetics of that period. Many churches standing today reflect the Gothic, Medieval, Modern and Post-modern architectural periods. The interior designs of churches, in particular the furnishings, originally reflected the period in which they were built, but are frequently altered or added to in order to reflect the history and culture of the worshipping tradition and the people of the time. 

Church furnishings 

The following table provides a list and descriptions of some of the furnishings of Christian church interiors. Those with asterisks are used in a Roman Catholic Church. 

Altar* 

This is the sacred table of the Eucharist. A large Church may have several altars, namely the high altar which is the main altar and other altars located on the sides or in separate chapels in the same building. 

Ambo* 

A speaker’s or reader’s stand usually positioned at the front of the congregation. It sometimes serves as a lectern or pulpit in Churches with a lecture-hall floor plan. 

Cathedra* 

The chair on which the bishop sits. 

Chapel* 

Either an alcove with an altar in a large Church, or a separate building attached to, or separate from, a large Church. Chapels are equipped in the same way as a Church. 

Kneelers* 

An object on which worshippers kneel to pray. Usually attached to the pew in front of the worshipper. 

Lectern* 

The lectern is a reading stand that is commonly used by lay people to read the scripture and make announcements. 

Pew* 

The pew is usually a long bench on which the congregation sits. 

Pulpit 

Its traditional use is the place at which the Gospel is read. In many modern Churches and cathedrals the pulpit or lectern is where both the lay readers and the priest read the scriptures/Gospel. (see also Ambo) 

Sacristy* 

This is the room or closet in which communion equipment, linen and supplies are kept. It is usually equipped with a sink and is the place where priest and altar servers change into ceremonial albs, stoles etc. 

Sanctuary* 

The front of the Church from where the service or mass is conducted. It is usually on an elevated platform. It is sometimes called the nave. 

Stage 

In western (not Orthodox) Churches where worship takes on a more theatrical function there is often a stage to accommodate performances. 

Stations of the cross* 

These are visual symbols of the passion of Christ 

Tabernacle* 

This is a secured, sacred vessel or space for holding consecrated hosts. A lit red light shining outside the tabernacle symbolises God’s presence. 

Holy Water vessels* 

These are usually metallic containers of holy water that worshippers dip their hands into and bless themselves on entering and/or leaving the Church. 

Iconography* 

This includes all artistic symbolism present in the Church. This can include sacred paintings, sculptures, decorations on chalices, candle sticks etc. 

Chalice* 

Is a sacred cup for holding consecrated wine 

Candelabras* 

Candle sticks and candles. 

Baptismal font* 

This is where new members of the community are baptised into the Church.