sedilIa

pl [Latin pl. of sedile =a seat: sedeo =to sit.] Arch.: Originally the rows of seats in a Roman amphitheater. Now applied to the stone seats on the south IMG:content-1152.png:[graphic] side of the altar in Catholic churches; used by the priest, deacon, and sub-dea con in the intervals of the church serv ice. In cathedrals a row of such seats is provided for the clergy, and they are occasionally canopied and enriched with sculpture. Sedilia.