Story Behind "The Old Rugged Cross" Hymn

George Bennard: The Early Years

Bennard was born in Youngstown, Ohio, in 1873 and spent his childhood in Iowa. His father was a tavern owner and later, a coal miner. Bennard's conversion at the age of 22 through the evangelistic ministry of the Salvation Army in Canton, Iowa, led to his ordination and commissioning as a traveling evangelist in 1898.

In 1910, stepping out in faith, Bennard resigned and began his own itinerant ministry. He traveled throughout the Midwest, holding revivals until his retirement in Reed City, Michigan, more than 30 years later.

Loved for its lilting melody and words of personal trust in the cross of Christ, "The Old Rugged Cross" remains one of the most cherished hymns of the Christian faith. It has since been included in numerous hymnals and recordings by contemporary artists.

Lyrics to "The Old Rugged Cross"

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross 

 The emblem of suff'ring and shame 

And I love that old cross where the dearest and best 

For a world of lost sinners was slain.

Refrain: 

So I'll cherish the old rugged cross 

Till my trophies at last I lay down 

I will cling to the old rugged cross

And exchange it some day for a crown.

Oh, that old rugged cross, so despised by the world

Has a wondrous attraction for me 

For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above

To bear it to dark Calvary. 

(*Refrain)

In the old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine 

Such a wonderful beauty I see 

For 'twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died 

To pardon and sanctify me. 

(*Refrain)

To the old rugged cross I will ever be true

Its shame and reproach gladly bear

Then He'll call me someday to my home far away 

Where His glory forever I'll share.

 (*Refrain)

Source:  Mature Living magazine.

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