10 Great Catholic Funeral Songs
Losing a loved one is never easy, but music can provide comfort and solace during the grieving process. If you're planning a Catholic funeral, these Catholic funeral music suggestions can come in handy.
When are Catholic funeral hymns played during a funeral?
Depending on the order of service at the Catholic funeral, the hymns can be played at various points throughout the mass. Songs may be played during the entrance procession, the offertory, or the recessional, though the times when songs are played is ultimately up to the family. The specific funeral hymns that are chosen may also vary depending on the preferences of the family and the church, but they are typically chosen for their religious significance and their ability to provide comfort and solace to mourners.
Songs for Catholic funerals
This list of Catholic funeral songs and hymns can be used for a range of different funerals. Whether it's for a dad, a mother, a sibling, or another loved one, you're likely to find a song that speaks to you.
1. "Be Not Afraid" by Bob Dufford
"Be Not Afraid" is a Christian hymn written by Bob Dufford, a Jesuit priest and composer. The song is based on the biblical passages Isaiah 43:2 and Matthew 14:27, which both encourage people to have faith and trust in God during times of hardship and fear. The lyrics of the song emphasize the idea that God is always present and watching over us, even in our darkest moments, and that we should have faith and courage in the face of adversity.
2. "Here I Am Lord" by Daniel Schutte
"Here I Am Lord" is a popular Christian hymn written by American composer Daniel Schutte. The hymn is based on the biblical story of Samuel, who was called by God and responded by saying "Here I am, Lord." The lyrics of the song emphasize the idea of being open to God's call and willing to serve Him in whatever way He chooses. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a memorable chorus that encourages listeners to respond to God's call with humility and a willingness to serve.
3. "On Eagle's Wings" by Michael Joncas
This song is drawn from the biblical passage Psalm 91, which describes God's protection and care for His people. The lyrics of the song speak of God's love and protection and emphasize the idea that no matter what happens in life, God will always be there to guide and support us. The melody is slow and gentle, with a soaring chorus that speaks to the idea of taking flight on an eagle's wings and finding peace and solace in God's love.
4. "I Am the Bread of Life" by Suzanne Toolan
"I Am the Bread of Life" is a popular Catholic hymn written by American composer Suzanne Toolan. The hymn is based on the biblical passage John 6:35, in which Jesus declares, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty." Suzanne Toolan sings that Jesus is the source of all spiritual nourishment and that those who come to Him will never go hungry or thirsty. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a memorable chorus that declares Jesus as the "bread of life" and encourages listeners to come to Him for sustenance and strength.
5. "You Are Mine" by David Haas
This popular Catholic hymn makes a good funeral song because of its message of comfort and reassurance. The lyrics speak of God's love and care for His people, and emphasize the idea that even in death, God is with us and will never abandon us. The melody is simple and uplifting, with a memorable chorus that declares God's love for us and encourages us to trust in Him.
6. "Amazing Grace"
While not specifically a Catholic hymn, this song has been popular in Christian and Catholic funerals for quite some time. The song makes a good funeral hymn because of its message of hope and redemption. The lyrics speak of God's grace and mercy, and emphasize the idea that through faith in Jesus Christ, we can find forgiveness and salvation. The melody is simple and powerful, with a memorable chorus that speaks to the idea of being saved by grace.
7. "How Great Thou Art"
"How Great Thou Art" is another classic hymn that makes a good funeral hymn because of its message of praise and adoration. God's greatness and majesty is both referenced and emphasized, with the main message being that He is the creator and sustainer of all things. The melody is uplifting and triumphant, with a memorable chorus that declares God's greatness and encourages listeners to join in worship and praise.
8. "Panis Angelicus" by Cesar Franck
This traditional Catholic hymn shares a message of spiritual nourishment. The lyrics speak of the Eucharist, which is a sacrament in which Catholics partake of the body and blood of Christ. The melody is simple and beautiful, with a memorable chorus that speaks to the idea of partaking of Christ's body and finding spiritual sustenance and strength.
9. "Salve Regina"
"Salve Regina" makes a good funeral hymn because of its message of comfort and supplication. The lyrics speak to the Virgin Mary, who is seen as a source of comfort and support in Catholic theology. The melody is gentle and soothing, with a memorable chorus that calls upon Mary to intercede for us and ask for God's mercy and grace.
10. “Ave Maria”, Franz Schubert
"Ave Maria" is a popular Catholic funeral hymn for several reasons. First and foremost, it is a prayer to the Virgin Mary, who is highly revered in Catholicism as a symbol of hope and comfort. The song's lyrics ask for Mary's intercession and guidance, which can be a source of comfort to mourners who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Numerous composers and artists have created their own versions of this hymn over the years, so if you're not into Franz Schubert's rendition, you'll likely be able to find one you enjoy.
When it comes to picking out a hymn for a Catholic funeral, there are plenty of options that can convey the right message. From traditional songs like "Ave Maria" and "Salve Regina", to more modern tunes, these timeless melodies will help you honor your loved one in a way you find meaningful.
