First Lutheran Church

THE NAVE AT FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH

This is the central portion of the church extending from the narthex to the chancel. The name is derived from the Latin word “navis” which means a ship. In about the third century when the Church was getting to be more definitely organized, the Apostolic Constitutions issued instructions that the church should be built oblong like a ship. In a Lutheran church, the nave should not be referred to as an auditorium nor a sanctuary. These are incorrect and loosely applied terms.

The nave contains the pews and is occupied by the congregation for corporate worship at stated hours. At other times it may be used for private devotion or for special church offices such as weddings and funerals. Therefore, absolute quiet, except for our part in the service, is the one proper rule of conduct within it. “So, could you not watch with me one hour?” This question of Christ may apply to us during the worship hour as it did to the disciples at the time of the betrayal. In our church, the north and south transepts, framing the large windows, are extensions of the nave. They also contain pews for use when needed. The north transept is provided with a chancel and complete appointments for a side chapel. The special uses of this chapel will be more fully explained later.