[60]No doubt the earliest church walls were made of wood. Greenstead Church, in Essex, affords a most interesting example of these old wooden walls.
[60]No doubt the earliest church walls were made of wood. Greenstead Church, in Essex, affords a most interesting example of these old wooden walls.
[61]Roman bricks are generally easy to be distinguished from others by their colour and shape. They were not all made in moulds of the same size, as we now make bricks, and on this account we find them to vary much in size and form.
[61]Roman bricks are generally easy to be distinguished from others by their colour and shape. They were not all made in moulds of the same size, as we now make bricks, and on this account we find them to vary much in size and form.
[62]As at Crowmarsh, Oxfordshire, of which an engraving is given.
[62]As at Crowmarsh, Oxfordshire, of which an engraving is given.
[63]At Godmersham, Kent.
[63]At Godmersham, Kent.
[64]It is certain that many of the splendid yew-trees in our old churchyards are far older than the churches themselves. And it is more than probable that in many instances they mark the places where heathen rites were once celebrated. It was natural for our Christian forefathers to select these spots as places of worship, since, being held sacred by the heathen people around them, they would be regarded by them with reverence and respect, and thus the cross which they reared, and the dead which they buried beneath the wide-spreading branches of these old trees would be preserved from desecration.
[64]It is certain that many of the splendid yew-trees in our old churchyards are far older than the churches themselves. And it is more than probable that in many instances they mark the places where heathen rites were once celebrated. It was natural for our Christian forefathers to select these spots as places of worship, since, being held sacred by the heathen people around them, they would be regarded by them with reverence and respect, and thus the cross which they reared, and the dead which they buried beneath the wide-spreading branches of these old trees would be preserved from desecration.
[65]These styles are now frequently calledfirst,second, andthird pointed.
[65]These styles are now frequently calledfirst,second, andthird pointed.
[66]"The glass windows in a church are Holy Scriptures, which expel the wind and the rain, that is, all things hurtful, but transmit the light of the True Sun, that is, God, into the hearts of the faithful. These are wider within than without, because the mystical sense is the more ample, and precedeth the literal meaning. Also, by the windows the senses of the body are signified: which ought to be shut to the vanities of this world, and open to receive with all freedom spiritual gifts. By the lattice-work of the windows, we understand the Prophets or other obscure teachers of the Church Militant: in which windows there are often two shafts, signifying the two precepts of charity, or because the Apostles were sent out to preach two and two."—Durandus on Symbolism.
[66]"The glass windows in a church are Holy Scriptures, which expel the wind and the rain, that is, all things hurtful, but transmit the light of the True Sun, that is, God, into the hearts of the faithful. These are wider within than without, because the mystical sense is the more ample, and precedeth the literal meaning. Also, by the windows the senses of the body are signified: which ought to be shut to the vanities of this world, and open to receive with all freedom spiritual gifts. By the lattice-work of the windows, we understand the Prophets or other obscure teachers of the Church Militant: in which windows there are often two shafts, signifying the two precepts of charity, or because the Apostles were sent out to preach two and two."—Durandus on Symbolism.
[67]Stained glass is said to have been first used in churches in the twelfth century. Windows were at first filled with thin slices of talc or alabaster, or sometimes vellum. As the monks spent much time in illuminating their vellum MSS., it has been thought likely that they also painted on the vellum used in the windows of their monasteries, and that afterwards, on the introduction of glass, their vellum illuminations suggested their glass painting.
[67]Stained glass is said to have been first used in churches in the twelfth century. Windows were at first filled with thin slices of talc or alabaster, or sometimes vellum. As the monks spent much time in illuminating their vellum MSS., it has been thought likely that they also painted on the vellum used in the windows of their monasteries, and that afterwards, on the introduction of glass, their vellum illuminations suggested their glass painting.
[68]At Brabourne, Kent, is a Norman window filled with stained glass of the period, which is still quite perfect.
[68]At Brabourne, Kent, is a Norman window filled with stained glass of the period, which is still quite perfect.
[69]"One who calls himself John Dowsing, and, by virtue of a pretended commission, goes about ye country like a Bedlam, breaking glasse windows, having battered and beaten downe all our painted glasse, not only in our Chappels, but (contrary to order) in our Publique Schools, Colledge Halls, Libraries, and Chambers."—Berwick'sQuerela Cantabrigiensis.
[69]"One who calls himself John Dowsing, and, by virtue of a pretended commission, goes about ye country like a Bedlam, breaking glasse windows, having battered and beaten downe all our painted glasse, not only in our Chappels, but (contrary to order) in our Publique Schools, Colledge Halls, Libraries, and Chambers."—Berwick'sQuerela Cantabrigiensis.
[70]The rubric in the Service for the Public Baptism of Infants directs the priest,if the godfathers and godmothers shall certify that the child may well endure it, todip it in the water. In the first Prayer Book of Edward VI. the priest is directed to "dyppe it in the water thryce."
[70]The rubric in the Service for the Public Baptism of Infants directs the priest,if the godfathers and godmothers shall certify that the child may well endure it, todip it in the water. In the first Prayer Book of Edward VI. the priest is directed to "dyppe it in the water thryce."
[71]Acts xvi. 15, 33. 1 Cor. i. 16.
[71]Acts xvi. 15, 33. 1 Cor. i. 16.
[72]As at Dorchester and Warborough in Oxfordshire, and Brookland in Kent; each of these have very elaborate mouldings upon them.
[72]As at Dorchester and Warborough in Oxfordshire, and Brookland in Kent; each of these have very elaborate mouldings upon them.
[73]At Llanvair Discoed, Monmouthshire.
[73]At Llanvair Discoed, Monmouthshire.
[74]The Font at West Rounton, of which we have given an engraving, is one of many examples of this. TheCentaur, the arrow from whose bow is just about to pierce the monster, probably represents the Deity conquering Satan, or perhaps the continual conflict of the baptized Christian against sin and Satan. The other figure may represent the Divine and human natures united in our Lord. This exceedingly curious Font was discovered during the recent restoration of the little Norman Church of West Rounton, Yorkshire. It was found under the pulpit, of which it formed the base, having been turned over so that the bowl rested on the floor, and so carefully plastered that there was no external indication of its original form. It has now been restored to its former position near the south-west door of the church.
[74]The Font at West Rounton, of which we have given an engraving, is one of many examples of this. TheCentaur, the arrow from whose bow is just about to pierce the monster, probably represents the Deity conquering Satan, or perhaps the continual conflict of the baptized Christian against sin and Satan. The other figure may represent the Divine and human natures united in our Lord. This exceedingly curious Font was discovered during the recent restoration of the little Norman Church of West Rounton, Yorkshire. It was found under the pulpit, of which it formed the base, having been turned over so that the bowl rested on the floor, and so carefully plastered that there was no external indication of its original form. It has now been restored to its former position near the south-west door of the church.
[75]Ezek. iii. 7, 8; ix. 4. Rev. vii. 3; ix. 4; xiii. 16; xiv. 1, 9; xxii. 4.
[75]Ezek. iii. 7, 8; ix. 4. Rev. vii. 3; ix. 4; xiii. 16; xiv. 1, 9; xxii. 4.
[76]βαπτἱζω [baptizô], to baptize, ἁνἁ [ana], again.
[76]βαπτἱζω [baptizô], to baptize, ἁνἁ [ana], again.
[77]"God planted a garden eastward;" man went westward when he left it; he turns eastward to remind him of his return. Almost every church in England is builteast and west, with the altar at the east.
[77]"God planted a garden eastward;" man went westward when he left it; he turns eastward to remind him of his return. Almost every church in England is builteast and west, with the altar at the east.
[78]Phil. ii. 10.
[78]Phil. ii. 10.
[79]Canon XVIII. 1603.
[79]Canon XVIII. 1603.
[80]"Many monuments are covered with seates, or pewes, made high and easie for parishioners to sit or sleepe in, a fashion of no long continuance, and worthy of reformation."—Weaver'sFuneral Monuments. Temp. James I.
[80]"Many monuments are covered with seates, or pewes, made high and easie for parishioners to sit or sleepe in, a fashion of no long continuance, and worthy of reformation."—Weaver'sFuneral Monuments. Temp. James I.
[81]It is likely that the idea of a gallery at the west end of the nave, was first suggested by the gallery of the Rood Screen at the eastern end.
[81]It is likely that the idea of a gallery at the west end of the nave, was first suggested by the gallery of the Rood Screen at the eastern end.
[82]At H.... church, Kent, for instance.
[82]At H.... church, Kent, for instance.
[83]Chertsey, Surrey.
[83]Chertsey, Surrey.
[84]One of the churches in Edinburgh, for instance.
[84]One of the churches in Edinburgh, for instance.
[85]2 Chron. vi. 13.
[85]2 Chron. vi. 13.
[86]Nehem. viii. 4.
[86]Nehem. viii. 4.
[87]As at Magdalene College, Oxford. "Formerly, when the annual sermon was preached on the feast of the nativity of St. John the Baptist, from the stone pulpit before the chapel of Magdalene College, Oxford, the whole area before it was covered with rushes and grass, to represent, it is said, the wilderness: and doubtless also for the accommodation of the hearers; the seats being set for the University authorities."—History of Pues.
[87]As at Magdalene College, Oxford. "Formerly, when the annual sermon was preached on the feast of the nativity of St. John the Baptist, from the stone pulpit before the chapel of Magdalene College, Oxford, the whole area before it was covered with rushes and grass, to represent, it is said, the wilderness: and doubtless also for the accommodation of the hearers; the seats being set for the University authorities."—History of Pues.
[88]Such an one formerly existed near the cathedral of Exeter.
[88]Such an one formerly existed near the cathedral of Exeter.
[89]Parker's "Glossary of Architecture," part i. p. 171. At the west end of Boxley Church, Kent, is a Galilee. There are very few—if any—other churches in which the ancientGalileeis to be found.
[89]Parker's "Glossary of Architecture," part i. p. 171. At the west end of Boxley Church, Kent, is a Galilee. There are very few—if any—other churches in which the ancientGalileeis to be found.
[90]Many of the wooden pulpits have dates upon them. The earliest of these is A.D. 1590, on a pulpit at Ruthin, Denbighshire.
[90]Many of the wooden pulpits have dates upon them. The earliest of these is A.D. 1590, on a pulpit at Ruthin, Denbighshire.
[91]"The Churchwardens, at the common charge of the Parishioners in every parish, shall provide a comely and honest pulpit, to be set in a convenient place within the Churche, and to be there seemly kept, for the preaching of God's worde."—Injunctions given by the Queen's Majestie, 1559.
[91]"The Churchwardens, at the common charge of the Parishioners in every parish, shall provide a comely and honest pulpit, to be set in a convenient place within the Churche, and to be there seemly kept, for the preaching of God's worde."—Injunctions given by the Queen's Majestie, 1559.
[92]It seems most probable that the last of these was the real object. In some old discourses the following phrase is met with:—"Let us now take anotherglass," meaning another period of time to be measured by the hour-glass: and the preacher reversed the glass at this point. Ancient hour-glasses remain in the church of St. Alban's, Wood Street, City; and at Cowden, Kent. The iron frames of hour-glasses still remain in the churches of Stoke Dabernoun, Surrey; Odell, Bedfordshire; St. John's, Bristol; Cliff, Kent; and Erdingthorpe, Norfolk, and doubtless others are to be found elsewhere. The Queen has lately presented an hour-glass of the measure of eighteen minutes for the pulpit of the chapel royal in the Savoy, to replace the old one, which was destroyed in the recent fire.
[92]It seems most probable that the last of these was the real object. In some old discourses the following phrase is met with:—"Let us now take anotherglass," meaning another period of time to be measured by the hour-glass: and the preacher reversed the glass at this point. Ancient hour-glasses remain in the church of St. Alban's, Wood Street, City; and at Cowden, Kent. The iron frames of hour-glasses still remain in the churches of Stoke Dabernoun, Surrey; Odell, Bedfordshire; St. John's, Bristol; Cliff, Kent; and Erdingthorpe, Norfolk, and doubtless others are to be found elsewhere. The Queen has lately presented an hour-glass of the measure of eighteen minutes for the pulpit of the chapel royal in the Savoy, to replace the old one, which was destroyed in the recent fire.
[93]Some few of these sounding-boards are, however, very handsome. At Newcastle there is, or lately was, a sounding-board which was a representation of the spire of the church.
[93]Some few of these sounding-boards are, however, very handsome. At Newcastle there is, or lately was, a sounding-board which was a representation of the spire of the church.
[94]Gentleman's Magazine, vol. 1. p. 364. Preaching-Crosses are also at Hereford, near the Friary of the Dominican (or Preaching) Friars; and in the churchyards of Iron Acton, Gloucestershire, and Rampisham, Dorsetshire.
[94]Gentleman's Magazine, vol. 1. p. 364. Preaching-Crosses are also at Hereford, near the Friary of the Dominican (or Preaching) Friars; and in the churchyards of Iron Acton, Gloucestershire, and Rampisham, Dorsetshire.
[95]See a curious letter on this subject in theGentleman's Magazine, vol. 1. p. 527.
[95]See a curious letter on this subject in theGentleman's Magazine, vol. 1. p. 527.
[96]See Walker's "Sufferings of the Clergy," p. 310.
[96]See Walker's "Sufferings of the Clergy," p. 310.
[97]S. Luke vi. 26.
[97]S. Luke vi. 26.
[98]The Vicar of the church here referred to has lately deceased, and his successor has commenced the much needed improvements. The Vicar's good daughter, who was quite asister of mercyin the parish, is not likely to be forgotten, though the old pew has gone. A beautiful window of stained glass has been erected to her memory by the parishioners.
[98]The Vicar of the church here referred to has lately deceased, and his successor has commenced the much needed improvements. The Vicar's good daughter, who was quite asister of mercyin the parish, is not likely to be forgotten, though the old pew has gone. A beautiful window of stained glass has been erected to her memory by the parishioners.
[99]This phase of the pew system is not over coloured. A few years since, a pew in the nave of Old Swinford Church was so nailed up; but other instances of this might be mentioned.
[99]This phase of the pew system is not over coloured. A few years since, a pew in the nave of Old Swinford Church was so nailed up; but other instances of this might be mentioned.
[100]James ii. 1-4.
[100]James ii. 1-4.
[101]James ii. 5, 6.
[101]James ii. 5, 6.
[102]Sermon by the Rev. E. Stuart, preached at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, Munster Square, London.
[102]Sermon by the Rev. E. Stuart, preached at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, Munster Square, London.
[103]2 Cor. viii. 9.
[103]2 Cor. viii. 9.
[104]Much information on this subject can be obtained from "The History of Pues: a Paper read before the Cambridge Camden Society, November 22, 1841."
[104]Much information on this subject can be obtained from "The History of Pues: a Paper read before the Cambridge Camden Society, November 22, 1841."
[105]Stone seats were often placed round the bases of the columns of the nave; examples are at St. Margaret-at-Cliffe, and Challock, in Kent.
[105]Stone seats were often placed round the bases of the columns of the nave; examples are at St. Margaret-at-Cliffe, and Challock, in Kent.
[106]British Critic; seeHistory of Pues.
[106]British Critic; seeHistory of Pues.
[107]"'1612, 27 May.—Ye Ch. Wardens meeting together for seekeingfor workmen to mak a fitt seete in a convennentplace for brydgrumes, bryds, andsike wyves to sit in ijs.
[107]
"'1612, 27 May.—Ye Ch. Wardens meeting together for seekeingfor workmen to mak a fitt seete in a convennentplace for brydgrumes, bryds, andsike wyves to sit in ijs.
—Extract from Parochial Books of Chester-le-Street, Durham.
"It is plain that at this period the privilege of a separate pew was confined to persons of the first rank; the rest sat promiscuously on forms in the body of the church, and the privilege is here extended only to sick wives and brides, who sat to hear the preacher deliver 'The Bride's Bush,' or 'The Wedding Garment beautified.'"—Surtees'Hist. of Durham.
[108]Blomfield'sNorfolk, vi. 317.
[108]Blomfield'sNorfolk, vi. 317.
[109]"Several congregations find themselves already very much straitened; and if the mode increases, I wish it may not drive many ordinary women into meetings and conventicles. Should our sex at the same time take it into their heads to wear trunk breeches, a man and his wife would fill a whole pew."—Satire on Female Costume.Spectator, No. 127."At church in silks and satins new,And hoop of monstrous size;She never slumber'd in her pewBut when she shut her eyes."—Goldsmith.
[109]"Several congregations find themselves already very much straitened; and if the mode increases, I wish it may not drive many ordinary women into meetings and conventicles. Should our sex at the same time take it into their heads to wear trunk breeches, a man and his wife would fill a whole pew."—Satire on Female Costume.Spectator, No. 127.
"At church in silks and satins new,And hoop of monstrous size;She never slumber'd in her pewBut when she shut her eyes."—Goldsmith.
"At church in silks and satins new,And hoop of monstrous size;She never slumber'd in her pewBut when she shut her eyes."—Goldsmith.
[110]"He found him mounted in his pew,With books and money placed for shew."The Lawyer's Pew, Butler'sHudibras."A bedstead of the antique mode,Compact of timber many a load,Such as our ancestors did use,Was metamorphosed into pews;Which still their ancient nature keepBy lodging folks disposed to sleep."Swift'sBaucis and Philemon.
[110]
"He found him mounted in his pew,With books and money placed for shew."The Lawyer's Pew, Butler'sHudibras."A bedstead of the antique mode,Compact of timber many a load,Such as our ancestors did use,Was metamorphosed into pews;Which still their ancient nature keepBy lodging folks disposed to sleep."Swift'sBaucis and Philemon.
"He found him mounted in his pew,With books and money placed for shew."The Lawyer's Pew, Butler'sHudibras."A bedstead of the antique mode,Compact of timber many a load,Such as our ancestors did use,Was metamorphosed into pews;Which still their ancient nature keepBy lodging folks disposed to sleep."Swift'sBaucis and Philemon.
[111]European Magazine, 1813.
[111]European Magazine, 1813.
[112]History of Pues, p. 77.
[112]History of Pues, p. 77.
[113]"1617. BarnhamcontraHayward Puellam.—Presentatur—for that she being but a young maid sat in ye pew with her mother, to ye great offence of many reverent women: howbeit that after I Peter Lewis the Vicar had in the church privately admonished her to sit at her mother's pew-door, she obeyed; but now she sits with her mother again."—God's Acre, by Mrs. Stone.
[113]"1617. BarnhamcontraHayward Puellam.—Presentatur—for that she being but a young maid sat in ye pew with her mother, to ye great offence of many reverent women: howbeit that after I Peter Lewis the Vicar had in the church privately admonished her to sit at her mother's pew-door, she obeyed; but now she sits with her mother again."—God's Acre, by Mrs. Stone.
[114]Whittaker'sWhalley, p. 228.
[114]Whittaker'sWhalley, p. 228.
[115]"We have also heard that the parishioners of divers places do oftentimes wrangle about their seats in church, two or more claiming the same seat, whence arises great scandal to the Church, and the divine officers are sore set and hindered; wherefore we decree that none shall henceforth call any seat in the church his own, save noblemen and patrons: but he who shall first enter shall take his place where he will."—Quivil, Bishop of Exeter, A.D. 1287.
[115]"We have also heard that the parishioners of divers places do oftentimes wrangle about their seats in church, two or more claiming the same seat, whence arises great scandal to the Church, and the divine officers are sore set and hindered; wherefore we decree that none shall henceforth call any seat in the church his own, save noblemen and patrons: but he who shall first enter shall take his place where he will."—Quivil, Bishop of Exeter, A.D. 1287.
[116]In the vestry of the church of East Moulsey is suspended a map of considerable size, showing the land that has been left to the parish for the sustentation of the church. The land ought to produce 120l.but some years since the parishioners engaged in a law-suit respecting a pew in the church, and lost the suit, and the income from the charity land was year by year absorbed in the payment of the debt then incurred. One evidence brought forward to prove the faculty was the following inscription, which is still (or was till lately)over the altar, painted at the foot of adaub, having the Ten Commandments surrounded by drapery, &c.:—"In lieu of the Commandments formerly written on the wall (when byconsent of the parish he made his pew) these tables were placedhere by—Mr. Benson,MDCCXII."[117]Gentleman's Magazine, A.D. 1780, p. 364.[118]We are so used to speak of theseatsin church, that we commonly forget the more proper appellation ofkneeling. This, however, was not always so. An old metal plate formerly on a pew in a church in the diocese of Oxford, has this inscription:—"No 83. Vicar and Churchwardens, two kneelings. Trustees of Poor House three kneelings."[119]SeeHistory of Pues, p. 37.[120]"Item. Paid to good wyfe Wells for salt to destroy the fleas in theChurchwardens' Pewd.vi.St. Margaret's Accounts.Dublin Review, xiii.
[116]In the vestry of the church of East Moulsey is suspended a map of considerable size, showing the land that has been left to the parish for the sustentation of the church. The land ought to produce 120l.but some years since the parishioners engaged in a law-suit respecting a pew in the church, and lost the suit, and the income from the charity land was year by year absorbed in the payment of the debt then incurred. One evidence brought forward to prove the faculty was the following inscription, which is still (or was till lately)over the altar, painted at the foot of adaub, having the Ten Commandments surrounded by drapery, &c.:—
"In lieu of the Commandments formerly written on the wall (when byconsent of the parish he made his pew) these tables were placedhere by—Mr. Benson,MDCCXII."
[117]Gentleman's Magazine, A.D. 1780, p. 364.
[117]Gentleman's Magazine, A.D. 1780, p. 364.
[118]We are so used to speak of theseatsin church, that we commonly forget the more proper appellation ofkneeling. This, however, was not always so. An old metal plate formerly on a pew in a church in the diocese of Oxford, has this inscription:—"No 83. Vicar and Churchwardens, two kneelings. Trustees of Poor House three kneelings."
[118]We are so used to speak of theseatsin church, that we commonly forget the more proper appellation ofkneeling. This, however, was not always so. An old metal plate formerly on a pew in a church in the diocese of Oxford, has this inscription:—
"No 83. Vicar and Churchwardens, two kneelings. Trustees of Poor House three kneelings."
[119]SeeHistory of Pues, p. 37.
[119]SeeHistory of Pues, p. 37.
[120]"Item. Paid to good wyfe Wells for salt to destroy the fleas in theChurchwardens' Pewd.vi.
[120]
St. Margaret's Accounts.Dublin Review, xiii.
[121]So called, as some suppose, because it could befoldedand removed when necessary.
[121]So called, as some suppose, because it could befoldedand removed when necessary.
[122]Joel ii. 17.
[122]Joel ii. 17.
[123]Injunctions of Edward VI. and Queen Elizabeth.
[123]Injunctions of Edward VI. and Queen Elizabeth.
[124]SeeWheatly on the Common Prayer, p. 161.
[124]SeeWheatly on the Common Prayer, p. 161.
[125]"The earliest examples remaining are of wood, many of them beautifully carved, as at Bury and Ramsay, Huntingdonshire; Swancombe, Debtling, and Lenham, Kent; Newport, Essex; Hawstead, Suffolk."—Parker'sGlossary.There are beautiful examples of brass lecterns at Magdalene and Merton Colleges, Oxford, in most of our cathedrals, and many parish churches.
[125]"The earliest examples remaining are of wood, many of them beautifully carved, as at Bury and Ramsay, Huntingdonshire; Swancombe, Debtling, and Lenham, Kent; Newport, Essex; Hawstead, Suffolk."—Parker'sGlossary.
There are beautiful examples of brass lecterns at Magdalene and Merton Colleges, Oxford, in most of our cathedrals, and many parish churches.
[126]Derived from the Frenchaile, a wing. It is no uncommon thing to hear persons who ought to know better talk aboutsideaisles, as if there were any other than side aisles.
[126]Derived from the Frenchaile, a wing. It is no uncommon thing to hear persons who ought to know better talk aboutsideaisles, as if there were any other than side aisles.
[127]Derived from the Greek, ἁγιος [hagios], holy, and σκοπἑω [skopeô], to view. There are very good specimens at St. Clement's, Sandwich, and at St. Mary's, Gloucester. The latter has three compartments.
[127]Derived from the Greek, ἁγιος [hagios], holy, and σκοπἑω [skopeô], to view. There are very good specimens at St. Clement's, Sandwich, and at St. Mary's, Gloucester. The latter has three compartments.
[128]In some few churches—as at Rottingdean, Sussex—the chancel, by the deviation of its north or south wall from the line of the nave, represent the inclined head of our Lord upon the cross.
[128]In some few churches—as at Rottingdean, Sussex—the chancel, by the deviation of its north or south wall from the line of the nave, represent the inclined head of our Lord upon the cross.
[129]The German word for piscina is Wasserhälter,water-holder.
[129]The German word for piscina is Wasserhälter,water-holder.
[130]Derived from the Italiancredenzare, to test by tasting beforehand; which refers to an ancient custom for the governor of a feast to taste the wines before presenting them to his guests. The application of the word to this piece of Church furniture is supposed to have its origin in an attempt once made to mix poison with the eucharistic elements.
[130]Derived from the Italiancredenzare, to test by tasting beforehand; which refers to an ancient custom for the governor of a feast to taste the wines before presenting them to his guests. The application of the word to this piece of Church furniture is supposed to have its origin in an attempt once made to mix poison with the eucharistic elements.
[131]The rubric at the commencement of the Prayer Book concerning "the Ornaments of the Church, and of the ministers thereof," still directs a credence-table to be placed in every church.
[131]The rubric at the commencement of the Prayer Book concerning "the Ornaments of the Church, and of the ministers thereof," still directs a credence-table to be placed in every church.
[132]In Flamborough Church, Yorkshire, a few years since, a white glove was hanging over the centre arch of the very beautiful chancel screen,—perhaps is hanging there still. Sometimes a bridal wreath was hung up with the glove.
[132]In Flamborough Church, Yorkshire, a few years since, a white glove was hanging over the centre arch of the very beautiful chancel screen,—perhaps is hanging there still. Sometimes a bridal wreath was hung up with the glove.
[133]When the rood screens were pulled down by the Puritans and the chancels were alienated from their proper use, it became necessary, in order to protect the immediate precinct of the altar from general intrusion, to erect around it some barrier; hence the origin of altar-rails, which were first ordered to be put up by Archbishop Laud. There are a few instances of ancient screens of considerable height immediately surrounding the altar.
[133]When the rood screens were pulled down by the Puritans and the chancels were alienated from their proper use, it became necessary, in order to protect the immediate precinct of the altar from general intrusion, to erect around it some barrier; hence the origin of altar-rails, which were first ordered to be put up by Archbishop Laud. There are a few instances of ancient screens of considerable height immediately surrounding the altar.
[134]As in Bottisham Church, Cambridge; Westwell, Kent; and most of our cathedrals.
[134]As in Bottisham Church, Cambridge; Westwell, Kent; and most of our cathedrals.
[135]Such galleries existed in the parish churches of Whitby, Yorkshire, and of Sandon, Staffordshire, a few years ago, but these have probably been since removed.
[135]Such galleries existed in the parish churches of Whitby, Yorkshire, and of Sandon, Staffordshire, a few years ago, but these have probably been since removed.
[136]Rood is analogous to our common wordrod. It is a Saxon word, and means a cross.
[136]Rood is analogous to our common wordrod. It is a Saxon word, and means a cross.
[137]It is a question whether the order in the canons for placing the Commandments in churches was intended to be other than temporary. At the time few comparatively had Bibles or Prayer Books, so there was then a reason for the order, which no longer exists. One of many churches in which the Commandments were painted at an early date over the chancel arch, is Fordwich, Kent; the date is 1688. At Dimchurch, in Kent, there is an old painting of the Commandments over the chancel arch, and a modern one over the altar.
[137]It is a question whether the order in the canons for placing the Commandments in churches was intended to be other than temporary. At the time few comparatively had Bibles or Prayer Books, so there was then a reason for the order, which no longer exists. One of many churches in which the Commandments were painted at an early date over the chancel arch, is Fordwich, Kent; the date is 1688. At Dimchurch, in Kent, there is an old painting of the Commandments over the chancel arch, and a modern one over the altar.
[138]As at C.... Church, Kent.
[138]As at C.... Church, Kent.
[139]"Cancellæare lattice-work, by which the chancels being formerly parted from the body of the church they took their names from thence. Hence, too, the Court ofChanceryand the LordChancellorborrowed their names, that court being enclosed with open-work of that kind. And so tocancela writing is to cross it out with the pen, which naturally makes something like the figure of a lattice."—Pegge'sAnonymiana.
[139]"Cancellæare lattice-work, by which the chancels being formerly parted from the body of the church they took their names from thence. Hence, too, the Court ofChanceryand the LordChancellorborrowed their names, that court being enclosed with open-work of that kind. And so tocancela writing is to cross it out with the pen, which naturally makes something like the figure of a lattice."—Pegge'sAnonymiana.
[140]Some of our chancels, however, were originally made considerablylowerthan the nave. When the church has been built on a slope it has sometimes followed the fall of the ground from west to east.
[140]Some of our chancels, however, were originally made considerablylowerthan the nave. When the church has been built on a slope it has sometimes followed the fall of the ground from west to east.
[141]So called from the Latin wordsedes, a seat. This position, on the south side of the altar, is in all respects the most convenient for the clergy when not officiating. To sitfacingthe people is a most painful position for the priest, as the eyes of all the congregation naturally rest upon him; it has, too, theappearanceof irreverence.
[141]So called from the Latin wordsedes, a seat. This position, on the south side of the altar, is in all respects the most convenient for the clergy when not officiating. To sitfacingthe people is a most painful position for the priest, as the eyes of all the congregation naturally rest upon him; it has, too, theappearanceof irreverence.
[142]See p. 223.
[142]See p. 223.
[143]See p. 223.
[143]See p. 223.
[144]This word is tautological, derived from our common wordrere, back, and the Frenchdos, back, from its position at the back of the altar. Many of these altar-screens have in recent years been restored at immense cost, as at Ely Cathedral.
[144]This word is tautological, derived from our common wordrere, back, and the Frenchdos, back, from its position at the back of the altar. Many of these altar-screens have in recent years been restored at immense cost, as at Ely Cathedral.
[145]In Braburn Church, Kent, an altar-tomb, with armorial bearings around and above it, occupies the very place of the altar itself. In the church of Prendergast, South Wales, large marble slabs with elaborate epitaphs occupy theentireeast end of the chancel. The most prominent of these—immediately over the altar—records that the departed "had learned by heart the whole Book of Psalms, and all the Collects of the Book of Common Prayer, with twenty-four chapters of the Old and New Testaments, before she was thirteen years old, and several more after" However praiseworthy and marvellous these accomplishments, this is surely no fitting place for proclaiming them!
[145]In Braburn Church, Kent, an altar-tomb, with armorial bearings around and above it, occupies the very place of the altar itself. In the church of Prendergast, South Wales, large marble slabs with elaborate epitaphs occupy theentireeast end of the chancel. The most prominent of these—immediately over the altar—records that the departed "had learned by heart the whole Book of Psalms, and all the Collects of the Book of Common Prayer, with twenty-four chapters of the Old and New Testaments, before she was thirteen years old, and several more after" However praiseworthy and marvellous these accomplishments, this is surely no fitting place for proclaiming them!
[146]It is probable that the prayers and the sermon were formerly read from the same lectern. The first authoritative document of which we have record in which mention is made of theprayer desk, is the Visitation Articles of the Bishop of Norwich (Parker), inA. D.1569.In the parish accounts of St. Mary's, Shrewsbury, is an item in 1577 for "colouring the Curate's desk." But prayer desks were used at a much earlier time.
[146]It is probable that the prayers and the sermon were formerly read from the same lectern. The first authoritative document of which we have record in which mention is made of theprayer desk, is the Visitation Articles of the Bishop of Norwich (Parker), inA. D.1569.
In the parish accounts of St. Mary's, Shrewsbury, is an item in 1577 for "colouring the Curate's desk." But prayer desks were used at a much earlier time.
[147]So called from the Latin wordalmarium, a closet or locker. The almery had many uses, and is to be found in all parts of the church, but chiefly in the chancel. Sometimes it was used to hold the priest's vestments; and in conventual churches, to hold the gold and silver vessels belonging to the monastery.
[147]So called from the Latin wordalmarium, a closet or locker. The almery had many uses, and is to be found in all parts of the church, but chiefly in the chancel. Sometimes it was used to hold the priest's vestments; and in conventual churches, to hold the gold and silver vessels belonging to the monastery.
[148]Gen. viii. 20; xii 7; xxxv. 1.
[148]Gen. viii. 20; xii 7; xxxv. 1.
[149]Exod. xxvii. 1.
[149]Exod. xxvii. 1.
[150]The Council of Epaone in France (A.D. 509) ordered that none butaltars of stoneshould beconsecrated with chrism. The custom of consecrating the altar with chrism is supposed to symbolize the anointing of our Lord's Body for the burial.—SeeThe Stone Altar, by Rev. J. Blackburn, p. 46.
[150]The Council of Epaone in France (A.D. 509) ordered that none butaltars of stoneshould beconsecrated with chrism. The custom of consecrating the altar with chrism is supposed to symbolize the anointing of our Lord's Body for the burial.—SeeThe Stone Altar, by Rev. J. Blackburn, p. 46.
[151]Rev. vi. 9-11.
[151]Rev. vi. 9-11.
[152]"A type both of the womb and of the tomb."—The Stone Altar, p. 41.
[152]"A type both of the womb and of the tomb."—The Stone Altar, p. 41.
[153]1 Cor. x. 4.
[153]1 Cor. x. 4.
[154]See "Prayer for the Church Militant."
[154]See "Prayer for the Church Militant."
[155]Queen Elizabeth'sAdvertisements, A.D. 1564, require "that the Parish provide a decentTABLE,standing on a frame, for the Communion Table." Hence it appears that by the wordtableat the era of the English Reformation, theslabonly was meant.—Parker'sGlossary.
[155]Queen Elizabeth'sAdvertisements, A.D. 1564, require "that the Parish provide a decentTABLE,standing on a frame, for the Communion Table." Hence it appears that by the wordtableat the era of the English Reformation, theslabonly was meant.—Parker'sGlossary.
[156]Matt xxvii. 66.
[156]Matt xxvii. 66.
[157]"The seal of the altar—that is, the little stone by which the sepulchre or cavity in which the relics be deposited, is closed or sealed."—Durandus, p. 128.
[157]"The seal of the altar—that is, the little stone by which the sepulchre or cavity in which the relics be deposited, is closed or sealed."—Durandus, p. 128.
[158]As at St. Mary's Hospital, Ripon. These ancient stone altars may always be known by thefive crosseson the table, emblematic of the five wounds of Jesus. Not infrequently, alas! this slab is to be found as part of the church flooring. The altar table of Norwich Cathedral is (or was lately) to be seen in the floor of the nave.
[158]As at St. Mary's Hospital, Ripon. These ancient stone altars may always be known by thefive crosseson the table, emblematic of the five wounds of Jesus. Not infrequently, alas! this slab is to be found as part of the church flooring. The altar table of Norwich Cathedral is (or was lately) to be seen in the floor of the nave.
[159]"Have you a Communion Table with a handsome carpet or covering of silk stuff, or such like?"—Visitation Articles, Bishop Bridges, 1634."Have you a carpet of silk, satin, damask, or some more than ordinary stuff to cover the Table with at all times?"—Visitation Articles, Bishop Montague, 1639.
[159]"Have you a Communion Table with a handsome carpet or covering of silk stuff, or such like?"—Visitation Articles, Bishop Bridges, 1634.
"Have you a carpet of silk, satin, damask, or some more than ordinary stuff to cover the Table with at all times?"—Visitation Articles, Bishop Montague, 1639.
[160]The pall is an archiepiscopal vestment, forming at the back a figure like the letter Y, as seen on the armorial bearings of our archbishops.
[160]The pall is an archiepiscopal vestment, forming at the back a figure like the letter Y, as seen on the armorial bearings of our archbishops.
[161]"All Deans, Archdeacons, Parsons, Vicars, and other Ecclesiastical persons shall suffer from henceforth no torches nor candles, tapers, or images of wax to be set before any image or picture. But only two lights upon the high altar (the only altar now retained in our Church) before the Sacrament, which, for the signification that Christ is the true Light of the World, they shall suffer to remain still."—Injunctions of King Edward VI."And here it is to be noted, that such ornaments of the Church and of the ministers thereof, at all times of their ministration, shall be retained and be in use, as were in this Church of England by the authority of Parliament in the second year of the reign ofKing Edward the Sixth."—Rubric before morning Prayer.
[161]"All Deans, Archdeacons, Parsons, Vicars, and other Ecclesiastical persons shall suffer from henceforth no torches nor candles, tapers, or images of wax to be set before any image or picture. But only two lights upon the high altar (the only altar now retained in our Church) before the Sacrament, which, for the signification that Christ is the true Light of the World, they shall suffer to remain still."—Injunctions of King Edward VI.
"And here it is to be noted, that such ornaments of the Church and of the ministers thereof, at all times of their ministration, shall be retained and be in use, as were in this Church of England by the authority of Parliament in the second year of the reign ofKing Edward the Sixth."—Rubric before morning Prayer.
[162]Durandus, who wrote about A.D. 1290, says, "At the horns of the altartwocandlesticks are placed to signify the joy of Jews and Gentiles at the Nativity of Christ."In the Sassetti Chapel at Florence is a beautiful fresco painting, by Ghirlandaio (A.D. 1485), representing the death of St. Francis. The painting, which has been copied by the Arundel Society, has all the character of a really historical work, and is particularly interesting as representing an altar with thetwocandlesticks upon it.
[162]Durandus, who wrote about A.D. 1290, says, "At the horns of the altartwocandlesticks are placed to signify the joy of Jews and Gentiles at the Nativity of Christ."
In the Sassetti Chapel at Florence is a beautiful fresco painting, by Ghirlandaio (A.D. 1485), representing the death of St. Francis. The painting, which has been copied by the Arundel Society, has all the character of a really historical work, and is particularly interesting as representing an altar with thetwocandlesticks upon it.
[163]Ps. cviii, 1.
[163]Ps. cviii, 1.
[164]2 Chron. v. 11-14.
[164]2 Chron. v. 11-14.
[165]Organs appear to have been used at a very early period, and some have thought that allusions to them are to be found in the Psalms of David; but till the commencement of the last century they were probably used in very few country churches. In cathedrals the organ was sometimes placed in the clerestory; its position over the choir screen is in every respect most objectionable.
[165]Organs appear to have been used at a very early period, and some have thought that allusions to them are to be found in the Psalms of David; but till the commencement of the last century they were probably used in very few country churches. In cathedrals the organ was sometimes placed in the clerestory; its position over the choir screen is in every respect most objectionable.
[166]Vestry, so called because it is the place where the vestments of the priests and their assistants are kept. It is also called thesacristy, because thesacredvessels and other furniture for use at the altar are kept there. The keeper of the vestry is properly called thesacristan. This word has now degenerated tosexton.
[166]Vestry, so called because it is the place where the vestments of the priests and their assistants are kept. It is also called thesacristy, because thesacredvessels and other furniture for use at the altar are kept there. The keeper of the vestry is properly called thesacristan. This word has now degenerated tosexton.
[167]Some of the subterranean and other small chambers in churches, supposed to be chantries or mortuary chapels, have probably been used as vestries. The following is extracted from Neal and Webb's edition ofDurandus:—"On eache side of this chancelle peradventure (for so fitteth it beste) should stand a turret; as it were for two ears, and in these the belles to be hanged, to calle the people to service, by daie and by night. Undre one of these turrets is there commonly a vaulte, whose doore openeth into the quiere, and in this are laid up the hallowed vesselles, and ornamentes, and other utensils of the churche. We call it a vestrie."—Fardle of Facions.Printed 1555.
[167]Some of the subterranean and other small chambers in churches, supposed to be chantries or mortuary chapels, have probably been used as vestries. The following is extracted from Neal and Webb's edition ofDurandus:—"On eache side of this chancelle peradventure (for so fitteth it beste) should stand a turret; as it were for two ears, and in these the belles to be hanged, to calle the people to service, by daie and by night. Undre one of these turrets is there commonly a vaulte, whose doore openeth into the quiere, and in this are laid up the hallowed vesselles, and ornamentes, and other utensils of the churche. We call it a vestrie."—Fardle of Facions.Printed 1555.