-
Liturgy is something Christians do together. When we gather as a community in prayer it is the whole assembly which celebrates. While some may exercise particular ministries of service (e.g. readers, ministers, singers, presiders), the whole community is called to participate in the prayers, actions and songs of the liturgy.
In Romanesque and Gothic Christian abbey, cathedral basilica and church architecture, the nave is the central approach to the high altar. "Nave" (Medieval Latin navis, "ship,") was probably suggested by the keel shape of its vaulting.
The angled seating is intended to enhance participation and a sense of being "gathered" around the table of the Lord. The use of chairs instead of pews near the sanctuary area is meant to facilitate creativity for special liturgies (weddings, funerals, masses for children).
The Romanesque style is particularly noticeable in the columns and arches within the nave. The columns provide both a decorative and a structural purpose. The column capitals use a Corinthian style, which is common in Romanesque tradition. -
