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- 6 - Rood Screen |
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Before the reformation the chancel at Prescot was divided from
the nave by a wooden screen, surmounted by a rood (figures,
probably life-size, of Christ on the cross and on either side,
Mary and John). A surviving drawing shows a later replacement,
taken down about 1848.
The present oak screen was erected in 1921 as a war memorial to those who
had fallen during the First World War. Eight oak panels are set into the back
of the return stalls listing those commemorated. The total cost was £941-1s-4d.
raised by subscription and Church and Bible Class collections. It was dedicated
on St. George's Day (April 23rd.) in 1921 by the Lord Bishop of Liverpool.
On top of the chancel screen is a large cross and the inscription 'TO THE
ONLY WISE GOD OUR SAVIOUR, BE GLORY AND MAJESTY, DOMINION AND POWER, BOTH NOW
AND EVER.' (Jude, 25). The screen was gilded in 1965 and stained black,
with further gilding, in 1998.
Screens were originally intended to close off the chancel and sanctuary and preserve them for holy use. The function of today's screen at Prescot is to draw the eye and heart upwards and to lift the soul towards God.