Crying in The Chapel

Elvis Presley's “Crying in the Chapel” was written by Artie Glenn in 1953 and became a hit when Elvis recorded it in 1960. It begins, “You saw me crying in the chapel, the tears I shed were tears of joy. I know the meaning of contentment, now I am happy with the Lord.” The chapel is described as “just a plain and simple chapel where humble people go to pray.”

The second verse explains how he got there. “I've searched and I've searched, but I couldn't find no way on earth to gain peace of mind.” He now finds happiness in a place “where people are of one accord” and gather “just to sing and praise the Lord.” The last verses invite others to follow, saying that “every sinner looks for something that will put his heart at ease” and “there is only one true answer, he must get down on his knees.” The promise is that “your burdens will be lighter and you'll surely find the way.”

Going to a place of prayer echoes Matthew 6:6. Peace that surpasses understanding is Philippians 4:7, and gladness at going to God's house is Psalm 122:1.