· The narthex is the foyer or vestibule of the Church—the area between the main entrance and the nave. This area, where historically those who could not attend the Liturgies (such as catechumens and public penitents), corresponds to the Court of the Gentiles in the Jewish Temple. This is also where baptisteries were traditionally placed.
· The nave is where the congregation gathers for the Liturgies. The word “nave” comes from the Latin word “navis,” which means “boat.” The area may have gotten this name as this area looks like an upside boat or from the idea that the Church is the Barque of St. Peter or Noah’s Ark. This area corresponds to the Men’s Court and the Women’s Court in the Jewish Temple.
· The area beyond the Altar Rail, where the Liturgies generally take place, is called the Sanctuary from the Latin for a place keeping holy things. This area corresponds to the Priests’ Court in the Jewish Temple.
· The area where the Ministers stand before the Altar is called the footpace or the predella. This area corresponds to the Holy Place in the Jewish Temple.
· The Tabernacle, where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved, corresponds to the Holy of Holies in the Jewish Temple.