What is the term for parts of a church that may serve as small chapels for various ceremonies?

The term that refers to parts of a church that may serve as small chapels for various ceremonies is transepts. Transepts are the spaces that extend perpendicular to the main body of the church, creating a cross-shaped floor plan. Often, the transepts house altars or chapels that are designated for specific uses, such as prayer, meditation, or particular ceremonies, thereby facilitating the spiritual needs of the congregation in a more intimate setting than the main worship area.

Understanding this architectural feature is important as it highlights the multifunctional design of churches, which are built to accommodate diverse religious activities and ceremonies. In contrast, naves, aisles, and vestibules each serve different purposes: the nave is the main central part of the church, aisles are corridors that run parallel to the nave, providing access to the seating areas, and vestibules are entryways or small lobbies before entering the main worship space. Each of these areas has its distinct role within the overall church structure, but it is the transept that specifically lends itself to functioning as a chapel for various rites and ceremonies.