Catholic Funeral Songs
50+ Church-approved hymns for the Funeral Mass, organized by when to use them
Understanding Catholic Funeral Music
The Catholic funeral Mass has specific requirements for music that set it apart from other services. Only sacred, liturgical pieces with Scripture-based texts are permitted during Mass itself - this isn't optional. Secular favorites (even meaningful ones like “Wind Beneath My Wings”) can be played at the vigil or reception, but not during Mass.
You'll need hymns for four key moments: the processional as the casket enters, the offertory when gifts come forward, communion, and the recessional at the final commendation. The congregation joins in - this communal singing is part of the liturgy, not a performance.
What makes Catholic funeral music distinct is its focus on the paschal mystery - Christ's death and resurrection - rather than grief alone. The Church teaches that death isn't an ending but a passage, and the music should reflect that hope.
Songs by Part of the Mass
Entrance Procession
As the casket is brought in and the priest processes to the altar. Choose something hopeful that helps mourners settle into prayer.
Offertory / Preparation of Gifts
While bread and wine are brought forward. Often a solo piece - this is where Ave Maria traditionally fits.
Communion
Must have Eucharistic themes. The congregation should be able to join in while receiving.
Final Commendation / Recessional
The farewell. “Song of Farewell” is written specifically for this moment. Focus on resurrection hope.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- 1.Playing secular songs during Mass - Save “My Way” or “Wind Beneath My Wings” for the vigil or reception
- 2.Not consulting the music director early - They know what's approved in your diocese and what the organist can play well
- 3.Choosing songs no one knows - If the congregation can't sing along, the communal aspect is lost
- 4.Too many solos - The Mass is participatory; balance solo pieces with congregational hymns
- 5.Ignoring the responsorial psalm - This isn't optional; work with your music director to select an appropriate setting
Planning Tips
Talk to the Parish Early
Your parish music director is your best resource. They know which hymns are approved in your diocese and what works in your specific church.
Consider the Congregation
Choose at least some hymns that people will recognize. “Amazing Grace” and “How Great Thou Art” work because everyone can join in.
Balance Latin and English
Traditional Latin pieces like “Ave Maria” and “Panis Angelicus” are beautiful but balance them with English hymns people can sing.
Use the Vigil for Secular Music
The vigil (wake) service the night before has more flexibility. This is where you can play their favorite secular songs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What songs are allowed at a Catholic funeral Mass?
Only sacred, liturgical music with Scripture-based texts is permitted during the Mass itself. Secular songs (even meaningful ones like "Wind Beneath My Wings") must be played at the vigil, reception, or graveside - not during Mass. Your parish music director can confirm which hymns are approved in your diocese.
How many songs do I need for a Catholic funeral Mass?
Plan for 4-5 hymns: one for the Entrance Procession, one at the Offertory, one during Communion, one for the Final Commendation/Recessional, and optionally one during the Preparation of Gifts. The music director may also include a responsorial psalm.
Can I play Ave Maria at a Catholic funeral?
Yes, Ave Maria is appropriate and commonly sung at the Offertory or during Communion. Both the Schubert and Bach/Gounod versions are acceptable. It's one of the most requested songs at Catholic funerals.
What is the difference between a funeral Mass and a memorial Mass?
A funeral Mass includes the body present (in a casket), while a memorial Mass is celebrated after burial or cremation without the body present. Both follow the same liturgical structure and music guidelines.
Can we have live musicians at a Catholic funeral?
Yes, live music is encouraged. Most parishes have a cantor and organist available. You can also hire additional musicians (vocalists, instrumentalists) with the pastor's approval. Recorded music is generally discouraged during Mass but may be permitted in some circumstances.
All Catholic Funeral Songs
Browse our complete collection of 12 Catholic funeral hymns, each appropriate for the funeral liturgy.
Amazing Grace
by Traditional
A timeless hymn of redemption and hope that has comforted mourners for centuries.
Why it's meaningful: This beloved hymn speaks of salvation and the journey from loss to grace, offering profound comfort to those grieving.
Best moment: Often played during the processional or as a closing hymn.
How Great Thou Art
by Traditional Hymn
A majestic hymn praising God
Why it's meaningful: Offers hope of reunion in heaven and celebrates faith
Best moment: Powerful as a congregational hymn or solo performance.
Requiem
by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Mozart\\
Why it's meaningful: Combines the majesty of classical music with the solemnity of the Catholic mass for the dead.
Best moment: Appropriate for formal Catholic services or classical music lovers.
On Eagle
by Michael Joncas
A popular Catholic funeral hymn based on Psalm 91, about God
Why it's meaningful: Speaks of being carried on eagle
Best moment: Often chosen as a recessional or during the final commendation.
Ave Maria
by Franz Schubert
A classical prayer to Mary that transcends religious boundaries with its beauty.
Why it's meaningful: The melody alone can move hearts, offering comfort through pure beauty.
Best moment: Creates a sacred atmosphere during the service.
Be Not Afraid
by Bob Dufford
A beloved Catholic hymn based on Isaiah 43, offering comfort and hope.
Why it's meaningful: Reminds us that God is with us through death and into eternal life.
Best moment: Often sung during the entrance or as a closing hymn.
The Lord
by Traditional (Psalm 23)
The beloved Psalm 23 set to music, speaking of God
Why it's meaningful: Offers comfort through the imagery of God as a caring shepherd.
Best moment: Perfect during the psalm or as a meditation song.
Pie Jesu
by Andrew Lloyd Webber
A beautiful Latin prayer meaning
Why it's meaningful: This sacred piece offers comfort through its gentle plea for eternal rest.
Best moment: Perfect for the meditation or offertory during a Catholic funeral Mass.
I Am the Bread of Life
by Suzanne Toolan
A Catholic hymn based on John 6, emphasizing eternal life through Christ.
Why it's meaningful: Offers hope of resurrection and eternal life in Christ.
Best moment: Particularly meaningful during the offertory or communion.
Panis Angelicus
by César Franck
A sacred Latin hymn about the bread of angels becoming bread for mankind.
Why it's meaningful: This sacred piece connects earthly departure with heavenly communion.
Best moment: Traditionally sung during communion or as a meditation.
Ave Verum Corpus
by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Mozart
Why it's meaningful: The exquisite beauty of this piece elevates the spirit in grief.
Best moment: Creates a sacred atmosphere during communion or reflection.
In Paradisum
by Traditional Gregorian Chant
Ancient Latin chant meaning
Why it's meaningful: This ancient prayer asks angels to lead the departed into paradise.
Best moment: Traditionally sung during the final commendation and farewell.
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