refers to the womb of Mary as “wider (platytera) than the heavens” because she gave birth to the Son and Word of God, Who is infinite and eternal, yet entered time and human history as a man (John 1:1-14). Depicted also are angels who worship in awe the mystery of the Divine Incarnation. Above the Platytera are placed the icons of the 12 Apostles with Christ at the center. Among the twelve Apostles are also added St. Paul and St. James the brother of the Lord and 1st Bishop of Jerusalem.

The area in front of the Iconostas is called the Soleas. This area serves as the place where baptisms, weddings and other sacraments are performed. Located to the right in this area is the Bishop’s Throne symbolic ofChrist as the High Priest present at all services. Next to the Bishop’s Throne is the Chanter Stand where chanters and readers will assist during the services. On the north side of the solea is a wood-carved Ciborium symbolic of the Tomb of Christ. Next to it is the pulpit which symbolizes the stone that was rolled in front of the Tomb of Christ. It was there that the angels proclaimed to the myrrh-bearing women the Good News of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

More About Icons

The Orthodox Church calls for the elaborate use of symbolism and iconography in the interior decoration of the church building. The style of iconography follows typical Byzantine traditions. To the eye of Western Christians accustomed to the religious art of the Renaissance, Byzantine