The term PATH TO THE ALTAR can be broken down into two crossword solutions: NAVE (4 letters) and AISLE (5 letters). The NAVE is the central part of a church, usually extending from the entrance to the altar. An AISLE is a long passage or corridor, typically in a public building, that separates sections of seating or bays of shelves. Together, the NAVE and AISLE form the path to the altar, which is the focal point of a church.