Funeral hymns

Advice on choosing hymns for funerals. 

Below are some of the most popular funeral hymns.

Remember that, depending on the length of the service there is only time for two or three.  

Things to take into account when deciding funeral hymns:

• Are the mourners able to sing along?
• Do the words communicate the right sentiments?
• Will there be a choir present or an organist or pianist?
• Do you want to play a recording that people can join in with?
• Do you want to hire a live musical ensemble?
• Do you want to involve musical members of your family or close friends to play/sing the hymns you chose?

Remember that many churches now allow a mixture of religious and secular music, and indeed secular readings and tributes.

This mixture of secular and religious elements in a funeral event is now commonplace at crematoria, cemeteries, civil funerals and interfaith services.

Recommended funeral hymns

There are a number of websites that offer advice and lists. These include the Church Music site and Music for Funerals. 

Abide with me

Amazing grace

And did those feet in ancient time? (Jerusalem)

Be thou my vision

Dear Lord and Father of mankind

Guide me, O thou great Jehovah

He who would valiant be

In Heavenly love abiding

Immortal, invisible, God only wise

Make me a channel of your peace

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord

Now thank we all our God

O Lord my God! When I in awesome wonder

(How great thou art)

Oh God our help in ages past

Praise, my soul, the King of heaven

The day thou gavest, Lord, is ended

The king of love my shepherd is

The Lord’s my shepherd, I’ll not want (Crimond)

The old rugged cross

Thine be the glory, risen, conquering Son

When I survey the wondrous cross

Choose the hymns you want 

If you want to be in control of your own funeral, choose the hymns you want played as part of your funeral wishes.

Put this playlist, or funeral wishes document, in your Lifebox which will be accessed by your executor or next of kin on your death.

By taking control of your funeral, it will save your loved ones the distress and trouble at the time when they will be grieving your passing.