Bishop’s Throne
From ancient
times, bishops of the Orthodox Church where episcopal offices exist,
have been formally seated on a throne, called a cathedra (Greek: κάθεδρα, seat).
Traditionally located in the south and east end of the nave, the
cathedra symbolizes the bishop's authority to teach the faith (hence
the expression "ex cathedra") and to govern his flock.
From the
presence of this cathedra (throne), which can be as elaborate and
precious as fits a secular prince (even if the prelate is not a prince
of the church in the secular sense); a bishop's primary church is
called a cathedral.
Some other
prelates besides bishops are permitted the use of thrones, for instance,
abbots and abbesses. These are often simpler than the thrones used by
bishops and there may be restrictions on the style and ornamentation
used on them, according to the regulations and traditions of the
particular denomination.
In the Greek
Orthodox Church, the bishop's throne will often combine features of the
monastic choir stall (kathisma) or Psalteria with appurtenances
inherited from the Byzantine court, such as a pair of lions seated at
the foot of the throne.
The term
"throne" is often used in reference to Patriarchs to
designate their ecclesiastical authority; for instance, "the
Ecumenical Throne" refers to the authority of the Ecumenical
Patriarch of Constantinople.
Chanter’s Podium
Chanting
Podium is where the chanters are stationed and usually located to the
south of solea. The chanters are often wear black outer cassock
with wide angel-wing sleeves called exorason.
You’ll find in a modern setting to have a choir in addition to having
chanters.
Particularly
in the Byzantine tradition, the cantor in charge of doing the music for
a service is referred to as the protopsaltis (Gr.
Πρωτοψάλτης).
Chanters sing the many hymns called for during the Divine
Services and the Divine Liturgy. A chanter must be
knowledgeable about the ecclesiastical modes as well as the
complex structure of the services.
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