The choir is positioned so that it can be heard, without consideration for its visibility. This floor plan originated in the first-century synagogue. The minister who delivers the sermon sits near the pulpit. There may two seats within the chancel railing, one for the minister who conducts the communion and one for a lay helper. Leaders face the communion table when addressing God, whether in prayer or song, because they are acting as part of the congregation.
Leaders face the congregation only during announcements, scripture readings, and the sermon.
The synagogue-style floor plan, with local variations, is used by Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, and Methodist churches, among others. This makes the service seem complex to the visitor. The first part of the service emphasizes Bible readings and the sermon, and it follows the general plan of a synagogue service. The second half of the service, if present, consists of communion. Any part of the service, except communion, may be led by a lay person.