What do Christian churches look like?
Since Christians were often persecuted in the early days of Christianity, the first churches were simply people’s homes, or any other safe gathering place, often indicated by the secret sign of a fish. Just as there are many forms of Christianity, there are many forms of churches today. However, they usually share some features in common. These features tend to date back to churches of the Middle Ages. Churches from this point on tended to be built in the shape of a cross. Common features include: • Bell tower • Nave or seating area • Altar where the gospel book and the bread and wine for the Eucharist are placed • Pulpit for sermons • Lectern holding a Bible for the readings • Choir loft or seating for the choir • Stained glass windows • Candles, incense burners • A precious cross over or on the altar • Baptismal font for baptisms (holds the water) Churches are generally built with the best the particular community has to offer as a way of showing respect and praising God. Churches ar
