What are the characteristics of a cathedral?

Answer by  rmttyler (160)

Cathedral tend to be much bigger and more dramatic than a regular church. Naturally, they can hold a larger amount of people. Churches are smaller and much more intimate. Therefore, the members of the congretation would normally know one another and attend the same chapel regularly. Cathedral would provide an opportunity for several congregations to attend at one time.

Answer by  Mable (3008)

People say "cathedral" to speak of a big church;this is wrong. "Cathedra" is Latin for "chair." Technically a cathedral holds the bishop's chair; it is the "seat" of the diocese.

Answer by  tamkees (3203)

Although cathedrals are often elaborate and ornate, the only real difference is that a cathedral is the bishop's home church, making it the main church of the diocese.

Answer by  AKMGabriel (241)

Cathedrals have more of a regional draw to them than local churches. Cathedral are dedicated to one of many saints and are built on a much grander scale than churches.