Lyrics of
The Old Rugged Cross

The Old Rugged Cross was composed in 1912 by George Bennard, a Methodist evangelist and song-writer. The inspiration to write this song came after an experience of ridicule and scoffing for his faith. Bennard felt that the world needed a tangible manifestation of the love of Christ, which he found in the image of the cross. The song was first performed publicly at a revival meeting in Michigan.

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On a hill far away stood a 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

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

To the old rugged cross i will ever be true
It's shame and reproach gladly bear
Then he'll call me some day to my home far away
Where his glory forever I'll share

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
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown