Holy Rood church was designed by Gilbert Flavel and was dedicated in 1961. It is octagonal with a square lantern of four glazed gables cutting into the pyramid roof, and the walls are of yellow-brown brick. The design was inspired by the vision of the Second Vatican Council as the People of God on their pilgrimage. The tent shape of the church reflects the tent of the Tabernacle in the Old Testament, which was the dwelling place of the presence of God.
- For information on the history of Holy Rood see the church's website.
- For information on the history of Roman Catholicism in Oxford see the Victoria County History.