How might our parish churches look in 2050 #6

 

The sanctuary is the focal point of the celebration of Mass. Three elements stand out: the Altar or table, the Ambo, and the Presider’s Chair. Each carries its own symbolism and meaning.

The Altar is the place where bread is taken, blessed, consecrated, broken, and given to the faithful. It is usually raised slightly so that it can be seen clearly, set apart from the rest of the sanctuary and the wider church.

The Ambo is the Table of the Word, from which the Word of God is proclaimed and shared with the people. Like the altar, it stands apart as a sign of something precious and sacred.

The Presider’s Chair signifies the importance of the ministry carried out by the one who sits there in the person of Christ. It is not a throne, nor does it replace the altar or the tabernacle.

There is much to be said for a sanctuary filled with natural light. A fine example can be found in my original home parish, the Church of the Holy Spirit in Ballyroan, Rathfarnham, County Dublin. There, light pours through a beautiful wall of stained glass.