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65+ Best Catholic Funeral Songs & Hymns

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Discover the best Catholic funeral songs, including the best songs for the wake, funeral mass, and mourning.

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Each faith community has its own traditions, expectations, and music to play during a funeral. Catholic funeral traditions require hymns to be sung at the vigil, the mass of Christian burial, and the rite of committal. But what are the best Catholic funeral songs and hymns to play? And when should you play them?

In general, the best Catholic funeral songs should focus peoples' attention on spiritual and scriptural truths. According to the Catholic "Order of Christian Funerals," songs should "express the paschal mystery of the Lord’s suffering, death, and triumph over death and should be related to the readings from scripture."

Thankfully, there are plenty of songs and hymns to choose from when planning a funeral service. If you're looking for the best Catholic songs and hymns for a loved one's funeral, keep reading.

Jump ahead to these sections: 

When Do Songs Play at a Catholic Funeral?

Songs are played at several different times during a Catholic funeral to set the tone and help those in attendance focus on scripture and their faith. You can expect songs at a Catholic funeral mass service during:

  • The entrance: A song is typically played when the casket is brought into the church or venue. This song sets the tone and is usually a hymn.
  • Between readings: Songs can be played as a response to various readings or to set the tone for the next reading.
  • During offering: A hymn is traditionally sung or played during the offertory.
  • During communion: Another hymn is typically played during communion when those in attendance approach the altar to receive the Eucharist.
  • The recessional: When the casket is taken out of the church or venue, a song can be played. This can be a hymn or another sacred song that reflects the deceased's values and faith.

How to Choose a Song for a Catholic Funeral

There are a lot of songs to choose from for a loved one's funeral, but some of the best funeral songs that are commonly recommended may not feel right for a Catholic funeral, but a Christian or Protestant funeral instead. So how do you choose? Here are our top suggestions to help you pick the right songs.

  • Talk to your priest: Talking with your priest or liturgy coordinator is an excellent place to start. They'll be able to provide you with examples of songs used in the past and make suggestions for the funeral of your loved one.
  • Talk with your family: It's also good to talk with your family. See if anyone has a specific song or hymn preference they'd like to have played.
  • Think of the deceased: Did your loved one have a favorite hymn? Perhaps they made note of specific songs they'd like to play when writing their end-of-life wishes. Look through their documents for inspiration.
  • Keep liturgy in mind: You'll need to choose specific songs for various parts of the funeral mass. These should be solemn hymns.
  • Consider live options: All the music you choose doesn't have to be pre-recorded. You could have a pianist play, the church choir sing, or a soloist sing a hymn during the funeral.

Best Hymns for a Catholic Funeral

When it comes to music for a Catholic funeral service, you'll find that hymns comprise most of the selections. This is because hymns are solemn and reverent, and carry a sense of holiness that is appropriate at a funeral. While this list is made entirely of hymns, you'll find hymns spread throughout the rest of this article, as well.

Here are the best hymns for a Catholic funeral.

1. "Lord of All Hopefulness" by Jan Struther

This beautiful song asks for God's guidance and presence during times of loss, pain, and sorrow. This is a perfect song to play during a recessional, as those in attendance get ready to leave and face life without their loved one.

2. “I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say” by Horatius Bonar

Horatius Bonar came from a long line of ministers in Scotland. This hymn he penned speaks about the comfort and guidance found in God. This is an excellent song to be played during the entrance or the recessional.

3. “I Know My Redeemer Lives” by Samuel Medley

Medley wrote “I Know My Redeemer Lives” in 1700 as a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It's an uplifting song that will help attendees focus on eternal truths.

4.“We Walk by Faith” by Frances J. Crosby

This hymn is based on verses in 2 Corinthians and Matthew. It is about faith, confidence, and trust, and is good to play during a recessional.

5. “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” by Isaac Watts

Written in 1707, this is one of the first hymns that paraphrased text from the Bible instead of using the exact wording. It talks about the hope of Christians through the work of Christ on the cross. It is solemn yet hopeful and uplifting.

6. “When They Ring the Golden Bells” by Dion De Marbella

This old hymn was written in 1887 and has stood the test of time. It celebrates the reunion of family members in heaven and provides comfort and hope to those in mourning.

7. "Jerusalem, My Destiny" by Gary Daigle, Rory Cooney, and Theresa Donohoo

This beautiful hymn is all about the Christian's journey through life and their ultimate goal of reaching heaven. It's a perfect hymn for a recessional.

8."In Paradisum" by Gabriel Fauré

This is another traditional recessional song. The lyrics are a prayer for the deceased to enter into eternal rest.

9. “Amazing Grace” by John Newton

One of the most widely-loved hymns, "Amazing Grace," was written by Newton, who was a repentant slave shipmaster. The third verse that begins “When we’ve been there ten thousand years,” was not written by Newton. It was added to the song by Harriet Beecher Stowe in her novel “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”

The combination became one of the most widely known and beloved hymns of all time. The lyrics talk about God's grace and forgiveness for everyone.

10. “Jesus Christ is Risen Today” by Charles Wesley

Though this hymn is popular on Easter Sunday, it’s a reminder that death is not final. We'd recommend playing it during the recessional.

Best Catholic Funeral Songs for the Wake

Mass is not celebrated at a Catholic Wake but the “Order of Christian Funerals” indicates that the music for the vigil should be holy. 

Here are the best Catholic songs for a wake.

11. “Morning Has Broken” by Eleanor Farjeon

This song gained popularity when Cat Stevens recorded a version of it in 1971 but it was initially published 40 years earlier. 

The lyrics of this song talk about God's grace being new every morning. It is uplifting and encouraging in the midst of sorrow.

12. “Come, Holy Ghost” by Rabanus Maurus 

A Benedictine Monk wrote this ancient song in the early 800s. This hymn asks the Holy Ghost to take rest in our hearts.

13. “Be Thou My Vision” by Dallan Forgaill

The origin of this song is a little murky, but “Be Thou My Vision” has been attributed to Forgaill, a sixth-century Irish poet. The text has been sung to an Irish folk tune since 1919.

This classic hymn is sung in churches around the world and is used for funerals, memorials, and wakes. The lyrics remind us to keep our focus on eternity instead of the world. 

14. “Be With Me, Lord” by Tom Booth

Written by contemporary writer Tom Booth, “Be With Me, Lord” is part prayer and part hymn. The singer asks God to be with him and provide comfort and guidance in the difficult days ahead.

15. “How Great Thou Art” by Carl Boberg

“Christianity Today” ranked “How Great Thou Art” to be the second-favorite hymn of all time. This classic is based on a poem written by Swede Carl Boberg.

The lyrics are uplifting and encourage the singer to praise the God who loves them and takes care of them.

16. “Soon and Very Soon” by Andrae Crouch

Written by an American gospel singer, this song’s simple lyrics pack a powerful promise. “Soon and very soon, we are going to see the King.” The focus on heaven is perfect for a wake service.

17. “O Loving God” by Paulette M. McCoy

Paulette McCoy has been singing in church all her life. She wrote the words to “O Loving God” to be sung to the tune of “Danny Boy.”

This song talks about the infinite love of God and the singer's desire to know Him more. It encourages listeners to seek God's will through all of life.

18. “May the Road Rise Up” by Tom Kendzia

This old Irish blessing has a new sound with Tom Kendzia’s “May the Road Rise Up.” The comforting lyrics will resonate with mourners. “Until we meet again; may God hold you in the palm of his hand.”

19. “How Can I Keep From Singing?” by Robert Lowry

Lowry, a Baptist minister, wrote this hymn. It has been recorded dozens of times and was published in the “Glory and Praise” Catholic hymnal. Enya’s version is particularly beautiful.

The lyrics of this song encourage the listener to put their faith in the goodness of God, no matter what trials or difficulties they face. This is an excellent song of comfort.

20. “For the Beauty of the Earth” by Folliott S. Pierpoint

This hymn was written in 1864. It was written as a comment on nature's beauty but also works as a beautiful piece to sing at a wake.

The lyrics talk about the wonders of nature as God's handiwork. If your loved one enjoyed nature or was an outdoorsy person, this would be a beautiful piece to play or sing in their honor.

Best Catholic Funeral Songs for the Funeral Liturgy 

Ask the music director at your Catholic church for assistance picking out music for your loved one’s funeral. You may also need to pick out songs to be played when the priest offers communion, besides picking out music for the congregation to sing.

Here are the best Catholic funeral songs for a funeral liturgy.

21. “As the Deer” by Martin J. Nystrom

Not all funeral hymns are centuries old. “As the Deer,” Nystrom’s famous hymn based on Psalm 42:1, was written in 1984. The text of the song compares a deer’s thirst for water to the soul longing for God.

22. “Be Not Afraid” by Bob Dufford

Dufford originally wrote “Be Not Afraid” when faced with anxiety about his future. The title originally came from the words that the angel spoke to Mary when she was told she was with child.  

23. “Blest Are They” by David Haas

The words “Blest are they, full of sorrow, they shall be consoled” bring comfort to mourners. This is an ideal song to play at a wake.

24. “Come to Me” by Gregory Norbet

This hymn is based on Matthew 11:28-30. In this scripture, Jesus says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden.” The song is ideal for a visitation to bring comfort to those who attend.

25. “Here I Am Lord” by Dan Schutte

This beautiful song’s chorus reads, “Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord? I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, if you lead me, I will hold your people in my heart.” It’s based on Isaiah 6 and 1 Samuel 3.

If your loved one served God in some special way, this is an excellent song to play in their honor.

26. “Hosea” by Gregory Norbet

Besides writing, “Come to Me,” Norbet also wrote the hymn titled “Hosea.” The lyrics came from the Book of Hosea and the Book of Joel. The words, “Long have I waited for your coming home to me,” make this the perfect choice for a Catholic funeral mass.

27. “I Am the Bread of Life” by Suzanne Toolan

Toolan wrote the song in 1964 when she was teaching high school in San Francisco. 

This song talks about people turning to God for their hope and peace. This is a good song to play during a wake or visitation.

28. “Let There Be Peace on Earth” by Jill Jackson-Miller and Sy Miller

Originally written for an international children’s choir, “Let There Be Peace on Earth” quickly gained in popularity. It’s often sung at Christmas but its hopeful promise and beautiful melody make it popular for funeral masses.

29. “On Eagle’s Wings” by Michael Joncas

This song is contemplative and was performed at many of the services of victims of the September 11 attack on the U.S. The lyrics talk about God providing comfort and peace to those who are hurting.

30. Panis Angelicus by César Franck and Sylvester Wager

Best Catholic Funeral Songs for the Funeral Home Visitation

Music played during a visitation is usually played in the background. While most visitors may not pick up on specific songs, the selections still set the tone. Songs that are honoring of the deceased, focused on faith, and encouraging to mourners are appropriate.

Here are the best Catholic funeral songs for a funeral home visitation.

31. “I Will Never Forget You” by Carey Landry

This song by Carey Landry was written in the 1970s and is based on Isaiah 49. This hymn talks about God's constant and neverending love for his people. This is a perfect song to play during a recessional.

32. “The Strife is O’er, the Battle Done” by Francis Pott

This traditional hymn is typically sung at Easter, but it may be a good choice of music to play at the funeral of a person who suffered from a long illness. 

33. “The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns” by John Brownlie

This song was translated to English by John Brownlie. Although the original lyricist is unknown, Brownlie translated the words from Greek to English in 1907. 

This song focuses on the hope and promise of Christ's second coming. Listeners are encouraged to focus on the future hope of a time free from pain.

34. “Crown Him with Many Crowns” by Matthew Bridges and Godfrey Thring 

This song was based on the tune 'Diademata' by Sir George Job Elvey and appeared in many hymnals across several denominations. It was written in 1851.

This is a hymn of praise, and focuses on the goodness of God. This would be fitting to play during a wake to focus attendees' attention on their faith.

35. “Sing a New Song” by Dan Schutte

Contemporary writer Dan Schutte wrote this joyful song. This is a joyful song that encourages worship and praise in the midst of trial and difficulty. If your loved one lived by this concept, play this song as a backing track for their funeral slideshow.

36. “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore You” by Henry Van Dyke

Henry Van Dyke wrote this song in 1907, and it is sung to the “Ode to Joy” tune. This song focuses on the goodness and grace of God no matter what we may be going through. Consider playing this as a backing track for a loved one's funeral slideshow.

37. “What Wondrous Love is This?” by Alexander Means

This hymn came out of the American South in 1811. The lyrics of this song encourage the listener to reflect on the great love, mercy, and grace of God. This is a perfect song to play during a wake.

38. “We Will Rise Again” by David Haas

Haas wrote the lyrics of “We Will Rise Again” about several verses in the Book of Isaiah. 

If you want to help attendees focus on the fact that death isn't permanent and that loved ones will be reunited again one day, play this.

39. “For All the Saints” by William Walsham

Walsham was the Anglican Bishop of Wakefield, and he wrote “For All the Saints” in 1864.

Looking for a song that talks about someone's legacy as a person of faith? This beautiful song pays tribute to the faith of those who have gone before.

40. O God, Our Help in Ages Past by William Croft

Best Catholic Funeral Songs for a Graveside Service

Graveside services are the perfect places for particularly poignant and hopeful songs. Due to limitations, you may not be able to play recorded music, but these songs made excellent pieces when sung solo, by a few people, or sung by a choir.

Here are the best Catholic funeral songs for a graveside service.

41. “Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer” by William Williams

This song, sung to a Welsh tune, is about God’s people traveling through the wilderness after their escape from Egypt. It provides encouragement as the listener focuses on God's goodness and help.

42. “In the Sweet By-and-By” by S. Fillmore Bennett and Joseph P. Webster

This gospel song is considered a standard in New Orleans-style jazz funerals. It's all about the anticipation and hope of what awaits believers in heaven. This is a good song for a wake or visitation.

43. “Dwellers in the Holy City” by Delores Dufner

This Victorian ballad has been popular for over a century. This hymn celebrates the community that believers share through their faith. Play this for a wake or visitation.

44. “We Shall Sleep, But Not Forever” by Mary Kidder and S. George Shipley

This is the perfect song to be sung at a graveside service. The lyrics, “We shall sleep, but not forever. There will be a glorious dawn" speak of the promise of life after death.

45. “The Lord is My Shepherd” by Francis Rous

We are all familiar with the verses that inspired this hymn. It is based on Psalm 23, which is often read at funerals.

The lyrics are comforting and soothing, making this ideal to play at any point during the service.

46. “Day is Past and Gone” by Thomas A. Dorsey

Thomas A. Dorsey was the father of black gospel music. He wrote this song while he was the musical director at a church in Chicago. 

This song is a tribute to the fleeting nature of life and a life that has been lived well. Play this during a memorial slideshow or during a wake.

47. “Song of Farewell” by Ernest E. Sands

This hymn begins, “May the choir of angels come to greet you.” It offers the perfect sentiment as you leave your loved one for the last time. 

48. “Beautiful Beckoning Hands” by Charles C. Luther

Published in 49 hymnals, “Beautiful Beckoning Hands” was published in 1885. 

This classic hymn talks about the hands of God that beckon all people to come to him. This is a comforting piece that can be played during a wake or visitation.

49. “You are Near” by Dan Schutte

Prolific writer Dan Schutte wrote the famous Catholic hymn “You Are Near” which is sung at many funeral services. The lyrics speak of the presence of God and the comfort he provides to his children.

50. “Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley” by Unknown

It is not clear who wrote this American folk hymn that speaks about Jesus understanding what we go through because he, too, walked through life on Earth. It's a perfect song to play during a wake.

Best Catholic Funeral Songs for Mourning

These songs may not be appropriate for a Catholic funeral service, but they may provide comfort to those experiencing profound grief. They align with Catholic beliefs and can help friends and loved ones process their loss.

Here are the best Catholic funeral songs for mourning.

51. “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe

This popular song was written by the lead singer of MercyMe, Bart Millard. The story of the band and this song was made into a movie in 2018.

In this song, the singer talks about what he thinks heaven will be like, even though he can only imagine it.

52. “I’ll Fly Away” by Albert E. Brumley

Brumley wrote this gospel song while working in the cotton fields of Oklahoma. This song provides hope and encouragement that death is not the end, only the beginning.

53. “Just a Closer Walk With Thee” by Unknown

It is unclear where this gospel song originated, but it is used in New Orleans jazz funerals. It encourages listeners to draw closer to God, no matter what they may be experiencing in life.

54. “Lift Me Up” by The Afters

The Afters is a contemporary Christian group from Dallas. “Lift Me Up” is about surrendering to God in the midst of trials and difficulties. This song can be an encouragement when played during visitation or a wake.

55. “I Will Rise” by Chris Tomlin

This song of hope, written for someone who lost a loved one, was written in 2008.

This might just be what someone needs to hear who is hurting and mourning over the loss of a beloved family member.

56. “Be Still My Soul (In You I Rest)” by Jason Ingram and Kari Jobe

Inspired by Psalm 46:10, “Be Still My Soul” reminds listeners to place their lives within God’s hands. This is a good reminder when processing loss and grief.

57. “I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLachlan

When you miss someone, sometimes you just need a good cry. Listening to “I Will Remember You” will bring you to that point.

58. “Who You’d Be Today” by Kenny Chesney

This song by country artist Kenny Chesney is about losing someone young. It’s about what that person would have been like if he or she had survived.

59. “When I’m Gone” by Joey + Rory

This heartbreaking song was sung by Joey Feek, who died of cervical cancer in 2016.

The song is sung from the perspective of someone who has a terminal illness and is preparing to die. The lyrics convey the fact that, though a person might not be physically present, they will always be with their family in spirit and through love.

60. “I’ll Be Seeing You” by Frank Sinatra

Whether this song is about heartbreak or death, it’s undoubtedly a classic. This song originally charted in 1944. 

This is perfect for someone who enjoyed music set in this era. Play this as a backing track for a funeral slideshow.

Best New Songs for a Catholic Funeral

If you're looking for new songs with a fresh feel, you might be interested in these. The lyrics are reverent and uplifting, making them ideal for playing during visitation or a funeral slideshow.

Here are the best new songs for a Catholic funeral.

61. "You Are Mine" by David Haas

The lyrics in this song talk about God's great love and care for his children. If you need a song that offers peace and assurance, this is it.

62. "Hold On To Love" by JJ Heller

While not a Catholic song, the lyrics align with Catholic thought. This song talks about the power of love and the importance of family.

63. "Lay Me Down" by Chris Tomlin

Death is never easy to deal with, but this song might help you find peace. The lyrics talk about the peace that God gives in times of sorrow.

64. "By Name I Have Called You" by Carey Landry

The lyrics of this song are based on Isaiah 43 and encourage the listener to remember that God knows them and loves them. This is a perfect song to be played during visitation or a funeral slideshow.

65. "Good Good Father" by Chris Tomlin

Visitors will be encouraged to reflect on the goodness of God when this song is played. It is a worshipful, uplifting song that encourages in the midst of sorrow.

66. "See You Again" by Anthony Evans

This song talks about the hope and joy of seeing loved ones in heaven and reuniting with those who have gone on before. 

67. "I Am Not Alone" by Kari Jobe

Grief and sorrow can feel very isolating. This song encourages mourners to seek God's comfort and presence and reminds them that they're not alone.

68. "Come to Jesus" by Chris Rice

This is a classic that encourages listeners to find rest and peace in Jesus. Life might be overwhelming and painful, but everyone can come to Jesus and find rest.

Honoring the Deceased Through Music

Catholic funerals include music all throughout the service from wakes and visitations to the funeral mass itself. Choosing the right songs should be done with care by speaking with the priest or liturgy coordinator and choosing songs that align with the Catholic faith. Thankfully, there are plenty to choose from so you can tailor the service to reflect the deceased's faith and honor their life.

Tip: Planning a funeral is a lot of work, but so is handling a loved one's estate. Use our helpful post-loss checklist to make sure you get everything done.