temple (nave) is reserved for the faithful, i. e. , for the laily who believe in Christ and sacramentally participate in the life of the church. The vestibule is the place of preparation for those wishing to enter the Kingdom of Grace and it is where the catechumens and penitents remain.
The Holy Sanctuary is in the eastern portion of the temple, so that all those praying face Eastward. Traditionally it is held that paradise was in the East, and our salvation took place in the East. The Lord is called The East (Orient) (Zachar. 6:12, Ps. 67:34), The East (Orient) from on High (Luke 1:78), Sun of Truth (Justice) (Malachias 4:2). St. Basil the Great states that Christians always turn to the East when praying.
The Altar (Latin alta ara – an elevated place of sacrifice) is elevated, or is in the Sanctuary which is already elevated above the nave, so that people may easily see and look upward toward the heavenly world.
The Sanctuary is separated from the choir-place and the body of the Temple by a solid Image-screen, which corresponds to the chancel-rail in the Western Church. Three doors give access through it to the different parts of the Sanctuary above mentioned.
Lights.
Lights are always used during divine service, even though it be performed in full sunlight. This is done not only for illumination, but also to show that the Lord, who dwells in light ineffable, illumines the world with spiritual radiance; to denote that the hearts of faithful believers are warmed by a flame of love toward God and his Saints; and, also, to show forth spiritual joy and the triumph of the Church.
Wax and olive oil, as the purest of substances, and free from animal matter, are used for lighing before sacred things. Artificial light also is permitted,
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