George Bennard (1873–1958)

On October 10, 1958, evangelist and hymn writer George Bennard entered his rest, departing this life in Michigan after decades of gospel labor. Born in Youngstown, Ohio, and shaped by the plain, hardworking faith of America’s heartland, he carried the message of Christ through churches, camp meetings, and revival gatherings. Those who knew such ministry understood its costs: long roads, spiritual battles, and the quiet weight of personal sorrow. Yet Bennard’s steady service reflected a kind of Christian heroism—faithfulness when applause fades, courage when grief lingers, and love that keeps pointing others to Christ.

“The Old Rugged Cross”

Bennard both wrote and composed “The Old Rugged Cross” during years when the meaning of Calvary pressed deeply upon him. The hymn was introduced publicly in revival settings in the American Midwest, including Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, and quickly spread because it spoke simply and truly: the cross is not merely a symbol, but the place where the Holy One bore shame to rescue sinners. Scripture agrees: “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18). The hymn’s call to cherish the cross above earthly gain echoes the apostle’s confession: “But as for me, may I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Galatians 6:14).

Enduring Witness

Bennard’s hymn helped generations fix their hope on Calvary—where shame became glory and death was conquered. In hospitals, funerals, small country sanctuaries, and distant mission fields, believers have sung it as an act of endurance: not denying pain, but bringing it to the Crucified and Risen Lord. It steadies weary hearts with courageous faith, reminding the church that true victory often looks like a cross before it looks like a crown, and that the Savior who “endured the cross, scorning its shame” now reigns (Hebrews 12:2).