The Chancel and Sanctuary

 Many important and extensive alterations to the chancel and much of the sanctuary were completed in the early days of Canon Given-Wilson's ministry (1906 to 50), the work being carried out by the local firm of Saunders & Son.  The woodwork in the sanctuary is modern. The oak candlesticks in memory of Lady Maria Elizabeth Collingwood have two faces carved on them, one of a daughter of the designer, the other of a daughter of the carver of Mabbitts of Colchester.  Lady Collingwood was born in Dedham, daughter of Dr Lermit (see page 24).

The silver candlesticks on the Holy Communion Table are in memory of Phyllis Holme Vinter (1896 to 1977). They were made by a member of our choir, Mr Roy Flewin, who was a silversmith and member of the Goldsmith's Company.

There is a small rectangular recess in the south wall of the sanctuary which once had a chimney but now has no external outlet. One theory is that this recess was an oven for baking sacramental bread; another that its object was to warm the sanctuary in the depth of winter.  The prayer-desk on the south side was presented in 1956 by James and Florence Austin, as a loving thank-offering. When it was exhibited by Mabbitts, who made it, at the Royal Agricultural Show, Cambridge, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother made special mention of the excellent craftsmanship. The credence table, in memory of Philip Saunders Waller and Ellen Mary, his wife, was presented by their children in February 1954.

The church possesses two processional crosses. The painted oak cross at the west end of the church was given by the Guild of Communicants in 1927, and the brass one, at the east end, is in memory of Major-General John Bruce Finlaison, C.M.G., of the Royal Marines, and was presented by his family in 1951.  In order to accommodate a new reredos in 1880, the east window was shortened at the base. The glass which had been installed about 1820 was removed, and Canon Mason, who was Vicar in 1880, provided the new window which was designed by C.E. Kemp.

All the coloured glass in the chancel and sanctuary is by Kemp or his successor, W. E. Tower. This is shown by the wheat sheaf and tower used as their rebus, and can be seen a little above the left-hand corner of each window.  On the Festival of St Michael and All Angels in 1909 the chancel was reopened after restoration. This included the black and white marble pavement which contributes much in dignity and beauty.

The Lectern bears the inscription: "In Memoriam January 5th. 1872. From E. Mingaye."