The CHANCEL is a seven-letter term referring to the area of a church around the altar, usually separated from the nave by steps or a screen. The APSE is a four-letter term referring to a semicircular or polygonal recess in a church, usually at the east end, containing the altar. The BEMA is a four-letter term referring to the raised platform in a church, synagogue, or other religious building, on which the altar or lectern stands. Altar Area is a term used to refer to the combination of the CHANCEL, APSE, and BEMA, which together form the area around the altar in a church.