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Narthex
The vestibule of an Orthodox church — the transitional space between the world and the nave; where catechumens stood.
The narthex is the vestibule or entrance porch at the west end of an Orthodox church, separated from the nave by a wall or low barrier. In the early Church, catechumens and penitents stood in the narthex during the Liturgy. Today it serves as a transitional space: entering the narthex, one lights candles, venerates icons, and prepares to enter the nave and the liturgical action.