A mix of contemporary and traditional is very popular in decorating around the world, so it’s no surprise that the combination is a favorite among church-goers. Although many traditional churches prefer the look of time-honored furnishings, a rising number of new churches and churches that are undergoing remodeling projects prefer to mingle both looks. That’s why the Exhorter set from Church Furniture Store is so popular among customers.

The Exhorter series is a sleek combination of solid oak wood and acrylic in a bold, yet simple style. Thick, straight legs connect to a large, tilted bible rest. Between the large, rectangular legs, a stately sheet of arched acrylic displays your personalized logo or an elegant image of three crosses. The base outlines the legs in a wider capacity and connects to the other side for superior stability.

The Exhorter Pulpit is available in three sizes. The 777, the smallest

of the three, measures 36 inches wide, 19 inches deep, 44 inches high and weighs 74 pounds. This model does not have side wings, as the two larger versions do, and is perfect for smaller pulpit areas or even classrooms and lecture halls. The 778 is the medium-sized Exhorter Pulpit and is 58 inches wide, 19 inches deep and 44 inches tall. The largest of the series, the 779, is an astonishing 7 feet wide, or 84 inches. Like the 777 and 778, it measures 19 inches deep and 44 inches high. This model weighs 167 pounds. All three versions are available in your choice of clear or smoked acrylic, including the side panels.

To complement your stylish Exhorter Pulpit, two sizes of communion tables are available. The 781

Exhorter Communion Table exhibits the phrase “Do In Remembrance of Me” on the acrylic center piece. This smaller model of the two measures 50 inches long, 18 inches deep and 32 inches tall. It weighs 79 pounds. The larger of the two communion tables is the 780, which is 70 inches long, 20 inches deep and 32 inches high. The 780 displays the inscription, “This Do In Remembrance of Me”, just as Jesus had instructed the disciples to join in communion. This model weighs 110 pounds.

Custom sizes are also available for all pieces in the Exhorter collection. For example, if you need a communion table that is larger than the 781 but smaller than the 780, a custom size can be created, such as a version that is 60 inches long. Additional shelves for more storage space, drawers, casters for easy mobility and custom shapes are possible. In addition to being customizable, the Exhorter series can be stained in any color available in the Minwax family of stains to ensure a great match with existing church furniture.

Pulpits and podiums can be found in a variety of styles and materials, but wood and acrylic seem to be the most popular options today. Both materials can make very stylish pieces, but they both also have their own unique set of benefits and disadvantages. Keep reading to see which type of podium might best suit the needs of your church.

Acrylic podiums give a more contemporary feel to the sanctuary with its glass-like look. Acrylic is a great alternative to glass products, which aren’t nearly as durable and tough. But don’t let its strength fool you – acrylics can be easy to scratch. Fortunately, more shallow scratches can be easily removed with many common products on the market. Just make sure not to use ammonia or acetone on acrylic, which can damage the surface.

As opposed to many other materials that are similar in looks, acrylics will not yellow in sunlight. Some plastics and even glass will change color when overly exposed to UV radiation. Acrylic is a thermoplastic made from natural gas.

Wood furniture also has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Wood has an unmistakable beauty and individuality that other furniture materials just don’t possess. Different species of wood vary in wood grain, color, and texture.

The type of wood used for creating furniture can also vary in its ability to hold stain. Certain species of porous woods, such as oak, tend to hold stain better while woods that aren’t as porous typically do not hold stain as well. If you would like to have a painted product, the type of wood you use can affect that as well. Maple is a favorite when it comes to painted wood furniture.

Because wood is a living thing, it can react to its environment, and precautions should be taken. Any drop or rise in temperature can cause wood to expand or contract. Additionally, moisture or humidity can take a toll on wood furniture. Wood can take on moisture and swell if not produced properly. Although wood stain can enhance the beauty of your product, it’s unlikely that it will offer long-term protection. Choosing a piece of wood furniture that has been sealed with a protective layer of lacquer or polyurethane is your best bet to keep your furniture protected against moisture.

However, it’s also wise to take measures to prevent damage to your wood furniture. Try to keep the piece in a room that maintains a consistent, comfortable temperature in a low-humidity environment. Also try to keep your wood furniture away from direct sunlight to help prevent fading.

Just like acrylic pieces, wood furniture can scratch. Scratches in wood can lead to water damage if moisture is allowed to settle in.                                                                                                                                                                              

Both acrylic and wood pulpits can be a beautiful addition to a church sanctuary, as long as the owner takes proper care of the piece. If both of these materials interest you, perhaps a combination of wood and acrylic would better suit your style. Wood pulpits are available with acrylic centers that can sometimes feature a church logo, crosses, or anything else you would like to display on your pulpit.