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THE CHANCEL AT FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH
This is the front portion of the church beyond the chancel-arch, and includes the sanctuary. Taken as a unit, it is symbolical of the Church Triumphant, or of the life to come. The chancel-arch symbolizes the way of the cross by which the faithful pass from this world to life eternal.
The chancel is for use by the pastor, his assistants, by the communicants, and by the children for their special services. It is also the place where those who desire are received into full membership through the offices of confirmation, confession of faith, by letter, etc. Its use excludes everything of a secular nature and the glorifying of man.
Although not occupied by singers, the space in front of the altar rail is called the “choir”, an architectural term. It received this name from former usage by the monks, or the lower clergy, who did the chanting and sat at right angles to the altar to distinguish themselves from the laymen. Our choir of singers does not consist of monks but is composed of members of, and is a part of, the congregation. It is correctly located facing the altar, where it can most effectively and devotionally lead the congregational singing which is its chief function. “I will sing unto the Lord” should be the motto of the choir and of the whole congregation as well.
Back of the communion rail is the sanctuary, considered the most sacred part of the church. It contains the high altar and its appointments, the reredos and the credence table.
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