The Pulpit and Lectern: Pillars of Anglican Worship and Spirituality
The Anglican Church’s architecture and liturgical design carefully incorporate significant elements, including the Pulpit and the Lectern, each carrying profound spiritual and practical importance. Their roles are often misunderstood, yet they are central to worship and the spiritual dynamics of the church.
The Pulpit: A Symbol of Proclamation and Authority
The Pulpit is an elevated platform, typically located on the right side of the chancel, symbolizing the mountain where Jesus preached to the crowds (Matthew 5:1). This elevation highlights the authority of God’s word and underscores the centrality of Christ in worship.
- Sacred Function: Dedicated exclusively to the reading and proclamation of God’s word, the Pulpit is a place where the clergy, licensed Lay Readers, or Evangelists declare the transformative and healing power of the Gospel.
- Ethical Boundaries: The Pulpit is reserved for edification and is not to be used for debates, personal grievances, or non-biblical purposes. Its sanctity demands that the preacher’s focus remains on pleasing God and leading the congregation closer to Him.
- Impact: Proclaiming God’s word from the Pulpit has the power to heal, deliver, restore, and transform lives, making it a cornerstone of Anglican worship.
The Lectern: A Platform for Engagement and Edification
Unlike the Pulpit, the Lectern is a smaller, non-elevated platform situated for easy visibility and interaction with the congregation.
- Purpose: Used for scripture readings, preaching, teaching, and announcements, the Lectern fosters engagement and allows for responses, questions, and discussions.
- Accessibility: While primarily for church use, respected individuals or public figures may also use the Lectern for non-liturgical messages, provided they maintain decorum and avoid contentious matters.
- Role in Worship: The Lectern complements the Pulpit by serving as a venue for dialogue, teaching, and community building within the body of Christ.
Shared Significance
Both the Pulpit and Lectern are platforms of immense spiritual responsibility, designed to transform lives and effect societal change. Those privileged to use them must approach with reverence, understanding their roles as stewards of God’s message.
In Conclusion:
The Pulpit and Lectern are not mere architectural features; they are profound symbols of faith and spiritual discipline. Through faithful use, they uphold the church’s mission to proclaim, teach, and live out the word of God.
The Most Rev’d Dr. Blessing Enyindah
Dean, Church of Nigeria
