bema
- : The usually raised part of a church, pulpit, altar, or chancel area.
- : a raised platform
This blog offers reflections on the lectionary, preaching, theology, culture, and scripture from the pastor of The First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa, NY. Feel free to interact, discuss, or interject comments or questions regarding this blog. The thoughts and ideas on this blog are solely Alan Rudnick’s and in no way represents the opinions of First Baptist Church.
“Beam’in” with the Bema page a great idea! nhd
Thanks!
Hey, Alan, I think I am going to enjoy your blog.
thanks.
Hey Alan, following your blog… keep it up!
Thanks Erin! I am looking to add more content every week so check back soon! Also, I hope your newlywed life is going well.
So glad to find you. I’ll look forward to your posts.
Good material and presentation on the mega-churches.
Alan, you need to update “About the Author” to include Evangeline.
Wow, I missed that.
you the straight talkinist rev. I’ve come across. keep it up.
Beam me up!
The only places I’ve heard the term Bema used were synagogues. Caught my attention!
Susan, thanks for taking a look at the blog. “Bema” is a good liturgical word for the elevated area for the pulpit, chancel, etc…
Yes, I read the definition on the blog, but I’ve never, ever heard Christians use it — only Jews. The Rabbi’s column in the newsletter from my spouse’s synagogue is called, “View from the Bema.” Here in the Great North Woods, folks call the chancel the “altar.” Actually, sometimes they inadvertently call it the “alter.”
Susan, its interesting how Baptists call the “bema” or chancel area the “pulpit.” The pulpit is a podium and not an area. It’s a bit nit picky, I admit, but it is helpful to use liturgical words to differentiate.