What is the area or part of the church where the altar is located?

The area of the church where the altar is located is known as the chancel. This space is typically situated at the eastern end of the church and serves as a sacred area where significant liturgical actions, such as the Eucharist, take place. The design and function of the chancel emphasize its importance in worship, as it is often raised or separated from the nave, underscoring the sanctity of the space where the altar, a central element of Christian worship, is found.

In contrast, the other terms listed refer to different aspects of religious practice or locations. A chaplain is a clergy member who provides spiritual support, often in a specific institutional context. A columbarium is a structure for housing cremated remains, an entirely different function from the altar's liturgical purpose. Chevrah kadisha refers to a Jewish burial society, which is involved in the preparation of the deceased for burial, again unrelated to the area with the altar in a Christian church. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the specific role and significance of the chancel in church architecture and worship.