“In the funeral rites music possesses the power to console and strengthen the mourners and can help them to express their love and affection for the deceased. For these reasons, music for the celebration of the funeral rites should be chosen with great care.”

A Companion to the Catholic Book of Worship III: Guidelines for Liturgical Music, Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, 119.

Music for the funeral liturgy differs from secular funeral music in that it does not merely come from the deceased's preferences or set a mood, but expresses the common prayer of those assembled. The most important musical elements in the liturgy are the responsorial psalm and, in the funeral mass, the other communal acclamations (“parts of the Mass”) led by the cantor and accompanied by organ, piano, or harp.

Popular songs and secular pieces, while they may be very appropriate for a funeral reception, are not permitted in the funeral liturgy. The Music Director is responsible for assisting you in choosing appropriate music and musicians, working to ensure that the music is of high quality, and enhancing the prayerfulness and dignity of the funeral Mass.

Please note that selections are not limited to this list, and also that the selections suggested may be used interchangeably throughout the funeral mass. The musicians have a responsibility to provide appropriate sacred and classical music during the funeral mass, and will be happy to assist in making appropriate selections. 
 

PRELUDE  This is typically instrumental, on the organ or piano.  
 

PROCESSIONAL

On Eagles Wings

Be Not Afraid 

Blest Are They 

Lord of all Hopefulness

Amazing Grace 

PRESENTATION OF GIFTS

Ave Maria (solo) 

Here I Am 

Prayer of St. Francis (Make Me A Channel)

Be Still My Soul 

COMMUNION

Pan de Vida

I Am The Bread Of Life

One Bread, One Body 

Panis Angelicus 

SONG OF FAREWELL

This takes place during the Final Commendation, during the sprinkling of holy water and incensing of the casket. At Christ Our Light there is a short setting of music that is typically used, although there are several arrangements available. Commonly titled “Song of Farewell”, some settings refer to this as “May the Angels Lead You Into Paradise”. 

RECESSIONAL HYMN

It Is Well With My Soul 

Sing With All The Saints In Glory 

Precious Lord, Take My Hand 

How Great Thou Art 

The King Of Love My Shepherd Is