Near the Cross

"Near the Cross" is one of those deeply grounding hymns that immediately quiets a congregation. With lyrics by Fanny J. Crosby and music by W. H. Doane, it centers entirely on the shadow of Calvary. The words are a simple, personal plea to stay close to the source of mercy, the "healing stream" that flows from the cross. In our parishes, it is a piece that requires very little accompaniment to be effective; often, a choir singing it in four-part harmony can carry the whole church into a space of reflection.

We reach for this hymn most often during Lent and Holy Week, especially on Good Friday when the focus of the liturgy is squarely on the crucifixion. The verses walk us through a journey of faith, from finding love and mercy as a "trembling soul" to the final hope of reaching the "golden strand" beyond the river. Because of this eternal perspective, it also brings great comfort at funerals, reminding mourners of the rest that waits for the faithful.

When teaching this to the choir, the beauty lies in the phrasing of the chorus. The repeated "In the cross, in the cross, be my glory ever" builds a quiet confidence that anchors the entire song. It is a gentle but firm declaration of faith that resonates long after the final notes fade.