Let the sanctuary speak

Church of the Holy Spirit, Ballyroan, Dublin

The sanctuary is the focal point of any Roman Catholic or Orthodox church. It is the area where the altar (or Holy Table in the Orthodox tradition) is located, together with the ambo for the proclamation of God's Word and the chair of the presiding priest. The reserved Eucharist is normally given a place of special honour, often within the sanctuary or in a prominent chapel associated with it.

The sanctuary is a sacred space set apart for the celebration of the Eucharist and other important liturgical rites. We should therefore approach it with reverence and care. In a sense, the sanctuary offers us a glimpse of the heavenly worship in which the Church participates whenever the liturgy is celebrated. It functions almost as an icon or window of heaven on earth: a thin place.

In most Orthodox churches, the sanctuary is separated from the nave by a sacred screen known as the iconostasis, which is covered with holy icons and contains doors through which the clergy pass during the liturgy. Rather than hiding the mysteries of heaven, the iconostasis reveals them through its rich symbolism and imagery.

The sanctuary where Heaven and Earth meet, the angelic choirs join the earthly ones and the bread and wine are changed into the Body and Blood of Christ.  It is the holy of holies for Catholics and all who enter and pass through a church might have a sense that this is so.

When present in a church, whether alone or with the community, we ought to be recollected, calm and silent.  We are on holy ground. This is one reason, among others, why I have a bit of a problem with the use of churches for concerts, shows and similar events. While it can be a significant generator of needed church income it risks blurring edges and de-sacralising sacred space. This is my own personal view of course. Likewise, I have mixed feelings about turning cathedrals and significant church historical sites into museum tour places with audio guides.  If there must be guided tours or random touristic visits allowed let it be restricted to certain times and done in a way that does not impede personal prayers in between the times of liturgical celebration. And, if resources permit, why not have a ministry of listening and/or reconciliation. I was astonished, some years ago, during a visit to the impressive basilica of St Peter’s that I did not notice any obvious opportunity for the thousands of daily tourists visiting there to speak with someone and seek spiritual comfort.

Let the sanctuary speak and may we be silent to admire its beauty and receive the presence and body of Christ.