Pews are the traditional form of seating for churches across the world. While beautiful and classic, wood pews can be hard and uncomfortable. In addition, they don’t offer much leg room, and members may feel like they don’t have enough space to sit comfortably.
For these reasons, many modern churches are opting for cushioned pew chairs that are far more comfortable than regular benches or pews. But why are chairs so much more comfortable than traditional benches?
Chairs are Cushioned
The main reason why chairs are more comfortable than benches is because they’re cushioned. Chairs have cushioned seats and backrests that can make it easier to sit for long periods of time. In addition, some of these cushions are filled with foam, which helps the seat conform to the natural shape of the person sitting in it.
Even without foam cushions, chairs are – in general – more comfortable than a hard wooden bench. Members will prefer chairs over benches because they can with without discomfort for an extended period of time.
Traditional pews are made of wood, which can be hard and uncomfortable. However, wood was the most practical and affordable option for seating in old churches, and the tradition continued into the modern day.
Some modern pews do have cushions, but they’re rare and not commonly found in older churches. Even so, church members still often prefer the comfort and ease of sitting in a chair rather than a bench.
Chairs Allow for More Personal Space
Chairs for church sanctuaries are also more comfortable because they allow you to have more personal space. Church pews force everyone to sit close together. Depending on how packed the service is, you may not even have any elbow room.
If you need to stand up and leave for some reason, everyone else in the pew must also stand to let you pass. For this reason, pews can be inconvenient and uncomfortable.
With church chairs, everyone has their own space, and they are free to get up and leave without inconveniencing other members.
Having personal space is more important than ever. Many church members prefer to keep some distance between themselves and other members of the congregation. Chairs allow them to do that by giving them the room to spread out and sit comfortably. Chairs are the better option for families with children because parents don’t have to worry about their young ones bothering other church members.
Chairs also allow for more leg room, which is something that traditional pews or benches are lacking. And when standing for certain prayers, chairs make it more comfortable to stand up and sit back down without worrying about bumping into someone.
Chairs Can Be Moved Around
Church sanctuary chairs can typically be moved around and repositioned so that members can find a comfortable location and position. Benches or pews, on the other hand, are fixed in place and can’t be adjusted.
Many people prefer having the option to move their seat if they want. It also gives the church the freedom to change the layout of the seating for events or special services without causing members any discomfort.
Overall, the portability of chairs makes them a more comfortable option for sanctuary members.
Some Chairs Can Be Linked Like Pews
Many congregations still prefer the idea of pews and their purpose. For some people, pews are sacred and an important part of the worshipping process.
Today, many sanctuaries have church pew chairs that link together in a pew-like way. Pew chairs allow churches to create aisles much like what is found in traditional churches. These chairs are cushioned and far more comfortable than their wooden counterparts.
Chairs Come in a Variety of Sizes
Another big reason why chairs are more comfortable than benches is because they come in a wide range of sizes. Some people don’t like sitting on benches or in pews because they don’t fit comfortably. The backrest may be too high or too low. The seat may not be deep enough, or it may be too deep. Something may just feel off about sitting in pews.
Chairs come in different heights, widths and depths, allowing them to be a much more comfortable and accommodating option for church members. Churches can also offer different size options to ensure that all guests and members are comfortable.