Which term refers to the left side of the church (as the congregation faces the altar) from which sermons are preached?

Which term refers to the left side of the church (as the congregation faces the altar) from which sermons are preached?

• A. Gospel
• B. Parochial
• C. Epistle
• D. Benediction

Answer: (A)

The left-hand side, as the congregation faces the altar, is known as the Gospel side. This term comes from where the Gospel reading is proclaimed during the service, and the pulpit or lectern is typically placed there for preaching. So sermons are delivered from this side because it is the designated location for the Gospel proclamation and homily. The Epistle side is the opposite side used for Epistle readings, Parochial relates to a parish, and Benediction refers to the closing blessing, not a side of the church.

The left-hand side, as the congregation faces the altar, is known as the Gospel side. This term comes from where the Gospel reading is proclaimed during the service, and the pulpit or lectern is typically placed there for preaching. So sermons are delivered from this side because it is the designated location for the Gospel proclamation and homily. The Epistle side is the opposite side used for Epistle readings, Parochial relates to a parish, and Benediction refers to the closing blessing, not a side of the church.