Theological Word of the Day

(“giant fennel,” “cane,” or ”casket”) 

In church architecture, the “narthex” of the church refers to the area serving as an entry point to the “nave” (the main area). This entry point can be a simple portico, foyer, or a welcome lobby. Ancient churches used to use the narthex as a anvenue of participation for those who were not full members of the church and who, because of this, could not enter the nave (this practice is not very common today). Modern Orthodox and Catholic churches use the narthex as a sort of buffer between the outside world and the kingdom representation of the church. It is here that many practices are often performed such as baptism, exorcisms, and candle purchases.