3 Common Church Pulpit Styles

In many churches around the world, the pulpit is perhaps the most important piece of furniture in a sanctuary (next to a possible altar). From the pulpit, ministers, pastors, preachers and bishops often read from the gospels and deliver their profound and provocative sermons, expounding on the Word of God to the congregation so they can learn the practical uses of God’s Word in everyday life.
Although pulpits are generally considered important parts to a church’s structure on the inside of the sanctuary, the styles and sizes of them can vary widely based on the overall décor of the church, its size and the size of the congregation. There are some pulpits that are small and compact with few frills, while there are others that have three levels and the minister would climb an actual flight of stairs to reach the part where he would give his sermon.
No matter what size or type of pulpit you need or want for your church, there are three pretty common styles of pulpits, based on the materials that are used.
Acrylic/Plexiglas
For a very modern look in your church, you may consider an acrylic or Plexiglas pulpit with wood accents. Acrylic and Plexiglas are very modern materials and they add a very open feel and a minimalist touch to a sanctuary. The acrylic can reflect and diffuse the light in the room, creating a glowing effect around the pulpit and creating a “heavenly” appearance. The pulpit is clear, so the congregation could see the speaker’s body and hands, and sometimes that body language can add a little impact to the sermon. And with the pulpit being generally clear, it makes it very unobstructed in the sanctuary, which in a small space would make the space look bigger.
Wood
Wood pulpits have been around for centuries and are still in heavy use today, especially in Victorian-era churches and those established in the 18th and 19th centuries in the U.S. Wood is a reliable material that is natural and can come in a variety of shades – from pine to maple to oak – to fit almost any sanctuary. Wood pulpits are strong and sturdy and present a sense of classy informality while also conjuring a feeling of unwavering support – a good characteristic when it has the Word of God emanating from the speaker. Wood pulpits come in a variety of sizes and shapes are reasonably affordable compared to other styles.
Metal
Metal pulpits can have a spectrum of colors, styles and can evoke a variety of emotional responses based on the type of metal being used. It can provide a modern look similar to an acrylic pulpit, but it can also impose a certain level of class and strength of conviction like a wood pulpit. A brighter metal finish can illuminate a darker sanctuary, while a darker color can bring extra attention I a very bright room. There are metal pulpits that can look like wood or stone if you are working in a more traditional, old-style sanctuary.
Pulpits come in many different shapes, materials and sizes. But there is a pretty good chance that if you have a church, there is a pulpit out there that will fit the character of your building and be the right fit for your congregation.

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