Rood Screen of Aysgarth

The Church of St Andrew at Aysgarth in the Yorkshire Dales is a suitably grand and interesting place, with a hint of its location’s natural beauty and God-given grandeur. Although much has been rebuilt, the tower is solidly medieval and some of the internal features were relocated here from Jervaulx Abbey at the time of Reformation.

The best example is Jervaulx’s rood screen. This was originally built around 1506 to separate the abbey’s chancel from its nave; a barrier to seal off the holiest place from the ordinary worshipper. Under Cromwells both (Thomas and Oliver), such screens were torn down and given to the poor for use as fire wood. Christ has removed the wall of separation between God and man; all may enter in. When Jervaulx fell, this beautiful woodwork was speedily transferred to Aysgarth Church. Thankfully, it was moved to the south side rather than the chancel’s front; it is now a pleasant decoration and not a theological statement of separation, a manmade impediment to God’s generous presence.

If there is something in your life which keeps you from God, limits His work or keep you without His embrace, chop it up and burn it. If, however, it can be moved to the side and tolerated, enjoy it still.