Funeral hymns hold a special place in memorial services, offering solace, reflection, and a sense of shared spirituality. Rooted in rich history and tradition, these hymns often transcend generations, bringing peace and unity to those mourning. Below is a list of 26 hymns explored in this article:
Amazing Grace
Why This Hymn is a Good Choice
“Amazing Grace” is one of the most universally recognized hymns, celebrated for its message of redemption and hope. Its timeless melody and deeply personal lyrics resonate with people from various walks of life, making it a moving choice for funerals.
About This Hymn
Written by John Newton in 1772, this hymn reflects Newton’s journey from a life of hardship and guilt to one of faith and salvation. The hymn’s enduring legacy has made it a staple at both religious and secular memorials.
Abide with Me
Why This Hymn is a Good Choice
This hymn provides comfort with its plea for divine presence during times of darkness and uncertainty. Its gentle melody and message of faith make it an uplifting selection.
About This Hymn
Composed by Henry Francis Lyte in 1847, shortly before his death, “Abide with Me” captures the author’s reliance on God as he faced his own mortality. It has since become a favorite at Christian funerals worldwide.
How Great Thou Art
Why This Hymn is a Good Choice
Its powerful lyrics and soaring melody celebrate the grandeur of God and the hope of eternal life, offering both comfort and a sense of awe.
About This Hymn
Originally a Swedish poem by Carl Boberg in 1885, “How Great Thou Art” was translated into English in 1949 and popularized by artists like Elvis Presley. It is now a beloved hymn in many Christian traditions.
The Lord’s My Shepherd
Why This Hymn is a Good Choice
A setting of Psalm 23, this hymn reassures listeners with its imagery of divine guidance and care, making it a deeply personal and comforting funeral choice.
About This Hymn
Set to the tune “Crimond,” the hymn became widely popular in the 20th century. It is frequently chosen for both traditional and contemporary funerals, especially in Christian ceremonies.
Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Why This Hymn is a Good Choice
This hymn focuses on the constancy of God’s love and faithfulness, offering hope and reassurance to mourners.
About This Hymn
Written by Thomas Chisholm in 1923, the hymn was inspired by Lamentations 3:22-23. Its enduring appeal lies in its heartfelt expression of trust in God’s promises.
Be Still, My Soul
Why This Hymn is a Good Choice
This hymn’s soothing melody and profound lyrics encourage peace and trust in God during difficult times, making it a fitting choice for farewells.
About This Hymn
“Be Still, My Soul” is set to the tune of Jean Sibelius’s “Finlandia” and was translated into English in the 19th century. Its themes of divine guidance and eternal hope resonate deeply at funerals.
Nearer, My God, to Thee
Why This Hymn is a Good Choice
With its poignant message of spiritual closeness to God, this hymn is both reflective and uplifting.
About This Hymn
Written by Sarah Flower Adams in 1841, the hymn is famously associated with the sinking of the Titanic, where it was reportedly played by the ship’s musicians.
It Is Well with My Soul
Why This Hymn is a Good Choice
This hymn’s lyrics reflect inner peace and acceptance, even in the face of tragedy, making it profoundly comforting.
About This Hymn
Penned by Horatio Spafford in 1873 after the loss of his daughters at sea, “It Is Well with My Soul” is a testament to faith and resilience.
In the Garden
Why This Hymn is a Good Choice
The hymn’s intimate depiction of walking with God in a garden offers solace and a personal connection to the divine.
About This Hymn
Composed by C. Austin Miles in 1912, “In the Garden” reflects the joy of communion with God and is often selected for its comforting imagery.
List of Funeral Hymns
- Amazing Grace
- Abide with Me
- How Great Thou Art
- The Lord’s My Shepherd
- Great Is Thy Faithfulness
- Be Still, My Soul
- Nearer, My God, to Thee
- It Is Well with My Soul
- In the Garden
- I’ll Fly Away
- Rock of Ages
- Precious Lord, Take My Hand
- Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing
- On Eagle’s Wings
- Blessed Assurance
- When Peace Like a River
- Jesus Loves Me
- Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling
- Sweet By and By
- Just a Closer Walk with Thee
- Take My Hand, Precious Lord
- What a Friend We Have in Jesus
- Shall We Gather at the River
- Holy, Holy, Holy
- Because He Lives
- Morning Has Broken
