All Saints Heritage Trail
Chancel steps
As we walk to the end of the Nave we reach the Chancel steps at the top of which is the Chancel and then the Sanctuary. The large arch which is at the top of the steps was once fitted with a “rood screen” which physically divided the Nave from the Chancel. ”Rood” is an Anglo-Saxon word meaning “cross”. The screen was removed in 1976 and was placed in the North West corner by the Astley Memorial.
This area at the front of the Nave and including the Chancel steps is kept as a spacious area for different uses including symphony and choral concerts and drama productions. The excellent acoustics of the church and the modern computer-controlled lighting system is very beneficial to such events. At certain times of the year a Nave Altar is created in this space, which is used for Communion instead of the High Altar.
The Pulpit
On the left of the Chancel steps is the Pulpit from which sermons are delivered to the congregation during services. Pulpits were introduced into western churches in about the 14th Century. The original pulpit in this church would have been made of oak and over the centuries it has been located in different places, including the centre of the Nave. The present stone Pulpit was made and placed in its current position during major restoration of the church in the period 1848-49. It is in the Perpendicular style with ornate carvings.
The Lectern
On the right of the Chancel steps is the Lectern. On this the Bible rests which is used for readings during services. The Lectern is usually in the shape of an eagle, with the Bible resting on its outstretched wings. The eagle is the symbol of John the Evangelist whose understanding and mastery of the words of Christ and the Will of God is compared with the ability of the eagle to stare straight into the sun.
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