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ROOD

A large crucifix with statues of Our Lady and St. Joh, one on either side, placed over the entrance to the choir or chancel on a screen or beam. It was often of richly carved wood, painted and gilded. The rood is also the True Cross on which Christ died. (Etym. Anglo-Saxon r_d, rod, pole, cross.)

All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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