The Nave

The Cathedral is Cruciform (cross-shaped) to remind us that Jesus died for us and points to the east – to the rising sun and the holy city of Jerusalem.

You enter at the western end next to the Font and sit in the Nave during services.

The word Nave comes from a Latin word, navis, which means a ship. This is because many medieval Naves were built in the shape of upside-down boats using the same building skills. It is also because in the early days the Church was thought of as a ship, with Jesus at its helm.

Sermons are preached in the Nave by Priests from the raised platform or Pulpit.

In medieval times the Nave was a bustling centre of activity where people met and conducted business.