![]() |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
(2000) The word Pulpit comes from the Latin pulpitum meaning 'platform'. As an elevated stand for the preacher or reader, the pulpit came into general use in the later Middle Ages. In early Christian times, the bishop preached from his cathedra or Bishop's chair which sat in the middle of the sanctuary behind the high altar. Later an ambo or raised platform prominently placed near the people was used but mostly for readings and litanies. The north side of the nave is considered the proper place for the pulpit. This might be confusing for some Trinity church goers as georgraphically, our pulpit is on the south side. However, as you face the altar, you are always facing EAST, no matter which church you are in or where it is located. The present chancel, finished in 1949, was all in white in keeping with the traditions of an early English church, but in 1952, the decor was changed to the oak paneling and stalls we have today. It was then that the present pulpit was installed. In character with the designs and symbols of the reredos and walls of the chancel, the pulpit has five symbols carved in its top rim... one for each of the four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The centre carving, usually hidden by the andipendium, the embroidered banner indicating the church season, is of an open bible. Parishioners are encouraged to examine the carvings on the pulpit and in the chancel.
|