What is the symbolism of Christian places of worship?

Answer 1

There are many different symbolic meanings to do with christian places of worship. The water used for baptisms symbolises spiritual transformation through purification, whilst the font being positioned near the entrance of the church shows new life entering Christianity. Even the physical shape of the places has a meaning, if it is very tall it shows Gods transcendence and omnipotence, yet the smaller chapels show the immanence and personal side of Jesus Christ, and many are shaped like a cross to continually remind us of Christ. Candles which are used in most religious places symbolise light, goodness, purity and show that Jesus is the light of the world. There are also different types of crosses with important meanings, the wooden cross without Jesus in protestant churches symbolises Jesus' resurrection. But in a roman catholic church there is a crucifix with Jesus to show his sacrifice and suffering. A very important feature of churches is the direction that they face, many face east in order to show Gods transcendence as the rising sun shines into the building, whilst some face west to get the same effect but when the sun sets. The detailed artwork and stained glass windows draw your eyes upwards when you enter a place of Christian worship to draw you up to God. The only extreme exception from the above points is that of a Quaker meeting place since it can take place in any building, not necessarily one of religious significance and are free from distractions such as the artwork in order fro them to focus purely on God.