The lovely text Crown after Cross was written by Frances R. Havergal and first published in 1879. The commonly used Christian tune for this hymn is an upbeat setting by Barney E. Warren and includes a refrain not originally published with Havergal’s text. This new melody by Nathan Howe takes a more reverent approach.
This is a modal hymn that eloquently teaches the Plan of Salvation. The text by David Macfarlane was written in stages – before, during, and after his missionary service in Argentina. The hymn describes elements of the premortal life, the veil, recognizing the Spirit, and being reconciled with God through Jesus Christ, followed by stirring descriptions of the praise and good works that accompany true conversion.