Music Blog

How a preacher’s personal trial and deep meditation on the shame and glory of the cross gave the church one of its most beloved hymns — and why ‘The Old Rugged Cross’ still ministers powerfully to the people of Victory Baptist Church in Carthage, Missouri, Jasper County, and across Southwest Missouri today.

On a bright Sunday morning here in Carthage, Missouri, the sanctuary at Victory Baptist Church fills with the warm sounds of familiar praise. As the pianist begins the introduction, voices across the pews lift in unison: “Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, tune my...