Lyrics: George W. Kitchin, 1887.
Music: CRUCIFER by Sydney H. Nicholson, 1916
Theme: [Jesus said] And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
This he said, signifying what death he should die. John 12:32-33

Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim,
Till all the world adore his sacred name.

Led on their way by this triumphant sign,
The hosts of God in conquering ranks combine.

Each newborn servant of the Crucified
Bears on the brow the seal of Him Who died.

O Lord, once lifted on the glorious tree,
As Thou hast promised, draw the world to Thee.

So shall our song of triumph ever be:
Praise to the Crucified for victory.

You can read a different set of lyrics and listen to this hymn here at The Center for Church Music. I suppose this version is the revised version by Michael Newbolt. (It’s under copyright? How does anyone have a copyright for a hymn written in 1887?)

I’ve never heard this hymn before. It seems to be a rather Episcopal/Anglican/Lutheran high-churchy sort of thing, but after I listened to it several times, it grew on me. It seems also to be a favorite of organists, but I liked this version best of the ones at youtube, on tubular bells:

May I lift high the cross of Christ today in my life, in my actions, and in my words.