Funeral Hymns
People choose Funeral Hymns for a variety of reasons.
Listen to and learn more about ten of the most popular Hymns that hold a special place in the hearts of many.
How to write an Inscription
Choosing or writing a memorial inscription is one of the most personal parts of remembering a loved one. A few carefully chosen words carved into stone can leave a timeless message of love, loss, and legacy. But what makes a good inscription? How do you find the right words?
Funeral cortege
A funeral procession is also called a funeral cortege. It is a slow, solemn and respectful convoy of vehicles. The cortege conveys the deceased and mourners from the funeral ceremony to the crematorium or graveside.
Newspaper notices
Writing an obituary for a loved one can be difficult. We can offer offer helpful advice,
Alternative funeral Ideas
It’s often the little things that can make a loved one’s final goodbye or celebration more personal. Allow us to inspire you with some wonderful, unique, and alternative funeral ideas.
How to write a eulogy
Writing and delivering a eulogy is a deeply emotional experience. It can be a positive experience for some, it must be remembered that it can be too difficult for others.
Carrying the coffin
A pallbearer is traditionally one of the people who help to carry someone’s coffin from the hearse to the funeral venue. If they are being buried, this would include the grave. People chosen to do this, or who would like to, are usually close family members and friends.
Dressing the deceased
Many people wish for their loved one to wear familiar clothing when they are buried or cremated.
We can offer helpful advice on dressing the deceased.
The funeral reception
The funeral reception, or wake, held after the funeral service can be a traditional or unique affair. Personalised funerals become more popular. Therefore, people are choosing to use this time to celebrate the life of their loved one rather than mourn their passing.
Bereavement support
Dealing with loss and bereavement can be a very difficult and confusing time for any individual or family and losing someone we love is probably one of the hardest experiences many of us will ever go through. Our local bereavement support groups, courses, and seminars will guide and support you through your healing process. You are not alone!
After the funeral
After the funeral, you are not alone. Bennetts Funeral Directors will continue to support you. We offer all our bereaved families practical information and a vast network of bereavement support services.
Funeral hymns are generally the top choice for religious music at funeral ceremonies, holding a special place in the hearts of many. They provide comfort, inspire reflection, and create a solemn atmosphere during one of life’s most challenging moments.
A farewell and celebration of life
Different hymns can evoke different moods. Some provide a peaceful ambience while others uplift the spirit with their message of eternal life. The right hymn can capture the essence of a life lived. Furthermore, they offer both a farewell and a celebration of a meaningful journey. In the United Kingdom, a rich tradition of hymnody exists, with many songs steeped in history and spirituality.
Listen to 10 popular funeral hymns
1. Abide With Me
Composed by Henry Francis Lyte in the mid-19th century, “Abide With Me” is a hymn that comforts those in mourning. It invokes God’s presence during the dark hours of life. This hymn has a timeless quality that reassures the bereaved of divine support and guidance. The lyrics, which plead for companionship through life’s trials and in the final moments, have rendered it a beloved choice for funeral services, evoking a sense of peace and continuity.
2. Amazing Grace
Perhaps the most well-known hymn worldwide, “Amazing Grace” resonates with many due to its message of redemption and hope. Written by John Newton in 1772, the hymn originally reflected his own transformation from a life of sin to a path of forgiveness and faith. Its gentle melody and powerful lyrics have made it a staple at funerals. It speaks to the transformative power of grace and the promise of new beginnings even after loss.
3. The Lord’s My Shepherd
Based on Psalm 23 from the Bible, “The Lord’s My Shepherd” is an enduring hymn that has been adapted into many musical settings over the centuries. Sung at Westminster Abbey at theFuneral of HM Queen Elizabeth II, its message of trust in divine guidance and care has been particularly meaningful in times of loss. The hymn’s soothing melody, paired with its reassuring lyrics, makes it a popular selection for funerals. Its words provide comfort by emphasising that one is never truly alone, even in the darkest valleys.
4. Jerusalem
Although not a traditional funeral hymn, “Jerusalem” has a special place in the hearts of many Britons. With its stirring call to national pride and spiritual unity, the hymn reflects a deep sense of belonging and heritage. Composed by William Blake it was set to music by Sir Hubert Parry. The hymn “Jerusalem” has come to symbolise aspiration and the eternal nature of the human spirit. When chosen for a funeral, it speaks to the journey towards a higher, more transcendent existence.
5. How Great Thou Art
This hymn, originally a Swedish folk hymn later translated into English, celebrates the majesty of creation and the omnipotence of God. “How Great Thou Art” captivates listeners with its powerful crescendos and reflective verses, which inspire awe and reverence. Often played at funerals, its theme of divine greatness and the beauty of life provides solace to those grieving, reminding them of the eternal cycle of life and the greatness that transcends earthly existence.
6. Morning Has Broken
This is a funeral service hymn that celebrates new beginnings and the beauty of the natural world, “Morning Has Broken” has become synonymous with the idea of renewal. Written by Eleanor Farjeon and famously performed by Cat Stevens, its lyrics evoke the freshness of a new day and the promise of hope. At a funeral, this hymn serves as a gentle reminder that life continues, and each new dawn carries the possibility of healing and rebirth.
7. Be Thou My Vision
An ancient Irish hymn, “Be Thou My Vision” is treasured for its poetic language and deep spiritual resonance. The hymn calls on God to be the guiding light and source of wisdom in one’s life. With its haunting melody and reflective lyrics, it has been a popular choice at funerals, offering a prayerful reflection on the divine presence in our lives and the hope for eternal guidance after death.
8. I Vow To thee My Country
This hymn merges patriotic sentiment with a spiritual message, making it a poignant choice for those who wish to honour both national pride and personal faith. Written by Sir Cecil Spring Rice and set to music by Gustav Holst, “I Vow to Thee, My Country” reflects on duty, sacrifice, and the enduring nature of the human spirit. Its stirring verses evoke a deep sense of loyalty and love, resonating strongly in funeral settings as a tribute to a life of service and commitment.
9. Nearer, My God, to Thee
Steeped in history and myth, “Nearer, My God, to Thee” has long been associated with moments of profound transition. Traditionally believed to have been the last hymn played by the crew of the Titanic, its tender melody and reflective lyrics evoke a sense of closeness to the divine in times of crisis. This hymn reassures mourners by expressing the hope of drawing nearer to God even in the midst of sorrow.
10. Precious Lord, Take My Hand
Written by Thomas A. Dorsey in the 1930s, “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” is a soulful gospel hymn that has provided comfort to countless individuals in their darkest hours. Its heartfelt plea for divine guidance and strength resonates deeply with those experiencing loss. The hymn’s soulful melody and affirming lyrics offer both solace and empowerment, making it a popular choice for funerals where the journey of grief is acknowledged with compassion and care.
The Comfort of Funeral Hymns
Further Advice and Support
At Bennetts Funeral Directors, we understand that arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming. That’s why our dedicated team offers expert advice and compassionate support on every aspect of funeral planning.