Chancel

Chancel derives from the Latin 'cancelli', meaning grating or lattice.

The term is used to describe a presbytery which is separated from the nave by a rood screen.

From 1215, it was considered necessary to enclose the chancel by a screen - 'to preserve the mystery of the Eucharist' and to separate the holy part of the church from the sometimes rowdy secular activities of the nave.

(text and images courtesy of Heritage Inspired)