noun
BAD : The priest stands in front of the bride and groom, facing the audience.
GOOD : The priest stands in front of the bride and groom, facing the congregation.
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audience = the people who go to watch/listen to a film, play, concert, public lecture, etc: 'The group has played to vast audiences all over the world.' 'At the end of the talk, members of the audience were invited to ask questions.'
congregation = the people who attend a church service: 'The vicar is always pleased to see new faces in the congregation.'