center of the apse of a church's sanctuary, behind the Holy Table (altar). In larger churches there may be a literal elevation, but there is often not room for this in smaller churches. The cathedra is surrounded on both sides by the synthronos, a set of other seats or benches for the use of the priests. Every Orthodox church and Eastern Catholic church has such a High Place even if it is not a cathedral. The term High Place also refers to the central portion of the Holy Table, where the antimension and Gospel Book are normally kept. The only other objects that are permitted to occupy this place on the altar are the chalice and discos (paten) for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. On the various Feasts of the Cross, a tray covered by an aër (liturgical veil) holding a Cross and branches of basil is placed on the High Place of the Holy Table until it is taken in procession to the center of the nave. On Good Friday, the Epitaphion is set on the Holy Table until it is taken to the "tomb" in the center of the nave for veneration by the faithful. During the Paschal Vigil, this Epitaphion is taken through the Holy Doors and placed again on the High Place of the Holy Table, where it will remain until the Ascension. See also Bema and bimah, elevated platform References Baudissin, W.W.F. von. "Hohendienst", Protestantische Real-Encyklopädie (viii. 177–195) Hoonacker, Albin van (1894). Le Lieu du culte dans la legislation rituelle des Hebreux. (1898). Altisraelitische Kultstätten. External links Orthodox bishop seated at the High Place Synthronon ancient church in Paros Altars Church architecture Eastern Christian liturgy Synagogue architecture Yahweh El (deity)