South Transept

As previously mentioned, Christian churches are traditionally oriented so that you are facing east when you face the altar. Turn to the right, looking into what is called the south transept (remember, that’s the “arm” of the cross) towards the double door leading outside. Take a look at the pulpit. As was done in many churches before the advent of electricity, the large “shell” helped the priest’s voice project better, so the sermon could be heard at the back of the church. Of course, this is no longer needed, since microphones serve that purpose. The shell is kept for historical reasons and to focus the attention of the congregation on the priest as the sermon is preached. An angel (or perhaps, Sophia the figure of Wisdom?) holds up the lectern. Walk past the pulpit, keeping it on your left. You’ll see a few steps coming down from your left. Go up those steps.