Usually sung on Good Friday, the hymn "The Old Rugged Cross" and was created by writer and composer George Bennard.

"The Old Rugged Cross" is an all-time, beloved gospel hymn. George Bennard wrote and composed the words and music in 1913. A sentimental favorite among Christians, it is one of the most popular of all 20-century hymns usually sung on Good Friday.

The Author and Composer: George Bennard

George Bennard, (1873-1958), was born in Youngstown, Ohio, but his parents soon moved to Albia, Iowa, and later to the town of Lucas in the same state. It was here that young George made his personal acceptance of Christ as his Savior. His father died when he was sixteen years old, and it was also the time he joined the Salvation Army. Bennard and his wife served this organization as officers.

Bennard's Ministry and the Significance of the Cross

Bennard, whose ministry was highly esteemed, was ordained by the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was also involved in conducting revival services, especially throughout the states of Michigan and New York.

One day, after returning to Michigan coming from one of his ministries, Bennard passed through a trying experience which caused him to reflect seriously about the significance of the cross and in particular, what the apostle Paul meant when he spoke of entering into the fellowship of Christ's suffering. While contemplating on these truths, Bennard was convinced that the cross was more than just a religious symbol but rather the very heart of the gospel.

Bennard's Inspired Account of the Hymn

In 1913, an inspiration came to Bennard when he was staying in Albion, Michigan. He started writing "The Old Rugged Cross" and composed the melody first. The words of his completed hymn were put into his heart as answer to his own need.

From that inspiration, Bennard was able to write the words and compose the music of "The Old Rugged Cross." He sent copy of the manuscript to Charles Gabriel, one of the leading gospel hymn composers at that time. Gabriel predicted that this song was going to be widely popular. The sacred song was first introduced at a special meeting in Pokagon, Michigan on June 7, 1913, but It was during the Chicago Evangelistic Institute before a large convention that it was first heard outside the church. Soon afterwards, "The Old Rugged Cross" became extremely popular especially among Christians, first in the US, and eventually, worldwide.

Even after the writing of this sacred song, Bennard continued his evangelistic ministries for forty additional years. He wrote other favorite gospel hymns, but none ever achieved the popularity of "The Old Rugged Cross."

Bennard's Last Years

Bennard spent the last years of his life by the "side of the road," a few miles north of Reed City, Michigan. At the age of 85, on October 9, 1968, he passed away. Near this home there still stands a twelve foot high cross with the words, "'The Old Rugged Cross' – Home of George Bennard, composer of this beloved hymn."

First Stanza: "The Old Rugged Cross"

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,

The emblem of suffering and shame;

And I love that old cross where the dearest and best

For a world of lost sinners was slain.

Chorus:

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 someday for a crown.

Lyrics and Music

Cyber Hymnal (Click MIDI from there)

Source:

101 Hymn Stories by Kenneth W. Osbeck, Kregel Publications (1985)