41. FONT

The baptismal font was given in memory of W. Melville Rankine who died in 1920. Baptism is normally regarded as a symbol of entry into a relationship with Chist and his Church.    INDEX

42. LECTERN

Many churches have a lectern for Bible reading and a pulpit for preaching God’s Word. Catholic churches often combine the two, using an ambo. I doubt whether St Andrew’s uses this terminology, but this piece of furniture seems to serve both purposes.    

43. SANCTUARY CHAIR

The special sanctuary chair, used by the officiating celebrant, was given by Miss Jean McAnaney in 1926.

44. ALTAR

The face of the altar is decorated with four ‘Gothic’ panels – an image we have seen elsewhere in this Church.   Uniting churches seem to be comfortable using the word ‘altar’ – not concerned about perceived theological distinctions between ‘altar’ and ‘communiuon table’.

45. ALTAR SETTING

On the altar is a small grouping of open Bible and Cross, demonstrating the priorities of worship in the Church.

46. ALTAR BIBLE

Christians believe that the Bible is the revealed word of God, useful for teaching, or reproof, for correction and for instruction in righteousness (2 Tim 3:16). As a consequence of the Reformation it also became important that the Bible be freely available and open for all to read. Both points are made here.

47. ALTAR CROSS

The cross is the most widely recognised symbol of Christianity, with its message that Christ in his love died for us so that we might be reconciled to God the Father. This cross was donated in memory of John and Helen Ansell.