We are blessed with a wealth of hymns that are suitable for funerals and memorial services. As you select music for your loved one’s funeral – or as you help a family choose music for a service – it can be helpful to see a list of hymns to select from. This post gathers together the top funeral hymns to help you decide what will be best for your service.
Funeral planning doesn’t have to wait. You can give a gift to your family by choosing hymns ahead of time. Choosing them ahead of time also makes the music more meaningful, because the people singing will know these hymns are close to your heart. If you’re a musician or minister helping someone plan ahead, you might find this resource useful.
To begin with, here are some of the most frequently-requested hymns for funerals and memorial services:
In addition to the top 12 hymns for funerals listed above, there are many more hymns suitable for funerals and memorial services. Here is an extensive list, grouped by these themes: Jesus’ Death and Resurrection, God’s Comfort and Care, Faith, Eternal Life, Praise and Celebration.
A Note for Musicians: The following hymns span denominations and geographic regions, so what is appropriate for your congregation will vary widely. I think of this list as a starting point for one that you could use in your church to guide families in selecting funeral hymns. Hopefully your list will be much shorter, since no grieving family will want to sort through 81 (!) hymns. If you’re helping someone plan ahead, you might find this resource useful.
"It is Well With My Soul" is a powerful and uplifting funeral hymn that provides solace and comfort to those mourning the loss of a loved one. This Christian hymn carries a profound message of finding peace amidst life's trials and adversity.
"It is Well With My Soul" is a powerful and uplifting funeral hymn that provides solace and comfort to those mourning the loss of a loved one. This Christian hymn carries a profound message of finding peace amidst life's trials and adversity.
Music for Funerals Entrance. The entrance music sets the tone for the ceremony, evoking emotions of reverence and respect. Popular choices often include classical pieces like "Adagio for Strings" by Samuel Barber or "Ave Maria" by Franz Schubert.
A traditional funeral song, “Amazing Grace,” offers the message of peace and salvation after death. The song finishes in the final stanza with a strong religious message of the afterlife which is sure to offer comfort to mourners.
A frequently requested song for a traditional funeral service is “Amazing Grace,” a Christian folk hymn written by English poet John Newton. Many find the message of forgiveness and redemption a beautiful tribute to the mercy of God.
This most popular funeral hymn is based on the words of Psalm 23. The hymn is very well known and has been sung by many at school, and has been sung at many notable Royal occasions.
One song particularly embodies what a “happy funeral song” sounds like to most people. This timeless gem is Louis Armstrong's “What a Wonderful World,” a poignant and uplifting melody that transcends cultural boundaries.
Particularly popular for Catholic funeral Masses, but universally loved even for non-religious funerals. The lyrics are in either Latin or German, and honour the Virgin Mary - you might recognise the prayer "Hail Mary, full of grace". This can be performed a cappella, but is usually accompanied on organ.
One of the most timeless classics for celebrating life is the eternally happy song, “What a Wonderful World.” Armstrong's soulful and warm voice captures the essence of appreciating life's beauty, even amid grief. This song has become a beloved anthem for celebrating the life of a loved one who has passed.
Written by Christine McVie, this simple ballad is one of Fleetwood Mac's best-known songs. Its words describe the ongoing warmth and presence left behind by a departed loved one.
"Great is Thy Faithfulness" is a beautiful hymn that holds profound significance in Christian funeral services. This hymn has long been cherished for its powerful lyrics and uplifting melody, which bring comfort and reassurance to those mourning the loss of a loved one. As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
It is also apt for funerals as the words focus on finding peace in death and knowing that God is with us. Background: The text for this hymn was written in 1779 by the English poet and cleric, John Newton, a former slave trader who found faith after a violent storm at sea.
Introduction: My name is Frankie Dare, I am a funny, beautiful, proud, fair, pleasant, cheerful, enthusiastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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