A remarkable discovery in the archives of York’s Bar Convent has unveiled a rare illuminated medieval scroll known as an Arma Christi, featuring the prayer poem O Vernicle. The scroll is one of the best-preserved examples ever found and is the only known version to include response texts after each verse, suggesting it may have been used in a communal setting rather than solely for private devotion.
Prior to this discovery, only ten surviving copies of the Arma Christi scrolls were known, all crafted in the 14th and 15th centuries by skilled artisans. With very few medieval devotional items surviving the Reformation and the outlawing of Catholicism under Elizabeth I, the Bar Convent Arma Christi is believed to be one of the last examples ever created, dating to around 1475.
Dr Hannah Thomas, Special Collections Manager at Bar Convent, discovered the scroll while cataloguing the convent’s collection. Initially appearing as an unassuming six-inch-long rolled document, its true significance became evident upon unfurling.
“This is an illuminated script, with hand-drawn figures and beautiful calligraphy – it is a medieval work of art in its own right. However, where it differs from the other examples that have been discovered is that this is not merely an illustrated poem or prayer created for private contemplation, but featuring response texts suggesting it was used by groups or families as they gathered together for prayers in the home,” said Dr Thomas.
As one of the only Catholic religious orders founded in England after the Reformation, the Bar Convent, now known as the Congregation of Jesus, was often entrusted with valuable religious artefacts for safekeeping during times of persecution. While many of these treasures have been on public display at the Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre, the process of fully cataloguing their archives has only begun in recent years. There are no records of when the Arma Christi scroll entered the Order’s possession, adding to its mystery.
The existence of this newly discovered scroll has been kept secret until now due to its historical significance. It will be the centrepiece of a major new exhibition at the Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre, opening on Saturday, 5 April 2025.
“We know that there will be huge excitement about this discovery, but given that it has remained hidden for over 500 years, we know that people will not mind waiting a few more weeks before we share this magnificent scroll with the world,” said Sister Ann Stafford, Mother Superior at the Bar Convent.
In addition to its display, the response texts from the scroll will be incorporated into a special religious service in the Bar Convent Chapel. The service, presided over by the Bishop of Middlesbrough and the Archbishop of York, will be livestreamed, allowing audiences worldwide to witness this extraordinary moment in history.
For more information or to book tickets for the exhibition’s opening, visit www.barconvent.co.uk.
