Nave
Main body of a church from west end to the choir(chancel) in which the congregation assembles

Piscina
A stone basin placed in the south wall of the chancel near the altar for washing the vessels at the end of Mass. A vertical channel runs into the earth

Reredos
The ornamented screen or wall at the back of altar

Rood
Meaning Cross -- applied to Crucifix and the figures of Mary and Joseph spanning the chancel where it meets the nave. Many of these destroyed in 16th and 17th centuries by puritans. There was often a screen here supporting the figures called the Rood Screen

Sacristy
Room in the church where the vestments and vessels are stored and the priest prepares for services. Many Anglican churches call it the Vestry.

Further General Reading

Spring 1990 Index

© Alcester & District Local History Society 1991