In a sanctuary, there are two distinct lighting areas: the platform and the congregational seating area. The platform is typically lit using theatrical lighting fixtures, and the congregational seating area is typically lit using architectural lighting fixtures (unless you desire to change the color, in which case a special type of theatrical light fixture is often used).

When non-colored light is used (no color filters), it’s important that both lighting areas (platform and congregational seating area) have lighting with the same color temperature. If there are differences between the two, they will appear to be separate spaces. That is to say, if the platform is lit with a warm light and the congregational area with a cooler light, people will perceive the two areas as separate. If you want the congregation to feel part of what is occurring on the platform, or if you are using video or still cameras, both areas should be the same color.