Choosing music for a funeral service is a deeply personal and significant decision. It’s an opportunity to honor the life of someone you loved, to reflect their faith, and to offer comfort to those who are grieving. While traditional hymns hold a special place in funeral services, many are now seeking Christian Funeral Songs that resonate with a more contemporary feel while still deeply rooted in faith. These songs can provide solace, celebrate a life well-lived in faith, and offer a message of hope and eternal peace.
If faith was central to your loved one’s life, selecting Christian funeral songs can be a beautiful way to express their beliefs and provide comfort to those in attendance. Consider adding these songs to an online memorial as a lasting tribute, allowing you to revisit them and remember your loved one whenever you wish.
Here is a selection of 38 Christian funeral songs, ranging from contemporary Christian hits to beloved hymns, perfect for celebrating a life and offering comfort during a time of loss:
1. If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away — Justin Moore
Justin Moore’s “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away” poignantly captures the longing to reconnect with loved ones who have passed on. This country-infused Christian song expresses the heartfelt desire to bridge the gap between earth and heaven, making it a touching choice for a funeral service. It speaks to the universal feeling of missing those who are no longer with us and wondering about their heavenly home.
2. I Will Rise — Chris Tomlin
“I Will Rise” by Chris Tomlin is a powerful anthem of Christian faith and resurrection. This contemporary Christian song offers a message of hope and assurance, reminding listeners of the promise of eternal life with God. The lyrics, emphasizing rising to meet God and leaving behind pain, provide comfort and strength during grief. The powerful chorus, “Before my God fall on my knees / And rise / I will rise,” is a declaration of faith and hope in the face of loss.
3. Amazing Grace — Alan Jackson
Alan Jackson’s rendition of “Amazing Grace” brings a classic hymn into a contemporary country context, making it broadly accessible and deeply moving. “Amazing Grace” is a timeless hymn recognized across denominations and generations, offering a message of redemption and God’s unwavering love. Its familiarity makes it a comforting and unifying song for funeral attendees to sing along to, celebrating the deceased’s life within a familiar framework of faith.
4. Messiah/You’re Beautiful — Phil Wickham
Phil Wickham’s “Messiah/You’re Beautiful” is a worshipful song that beautifully blends adoration for God with the anticipation of eternal life in heaven. This Christian funeral song emphasizes the beauty of God’s creation and the promise of reunion with Him after earthly life. It’s a reflective and uplifting choice, particularly fitting for the conclusion of a religious funeral service, offering a sense of peace and hope in eternal life.
5. I Can Only Imagine — MercyMe
Inspired by the singer’s own father’s passing, MercyMe’s “I Can Only Imagine” is a deeply moving song that contemplates the wonder of standing before God in heaven. This popular Christian funeral song explores the awe and reverence of encountering God face-to-face, offering a comforting perspective on the afterlife. Its powerful message of worship and anticipation of heaven resonates deeply during times of grief, often bringing solace and inspiring faith.
6. Three Wooden Crosses — Randy Travis
Randy Travis’s “Three Wooden Crosses” is a storytelling country song with a powerful Christian message about faith and legacy. While set against the backdrop of a tragic bus accident, the song focuses on the enduring impact of faith and good deeds. “Three Wooden Crosses” serves as a reminder to reflect on our own lives and the positive influence we can have on the world, even after we are gone. It prompts reflection on the values we live by and the legacy we leave behind.
7. Angels Among Us — Alabama
Alabama’s “Angels Among Us” is a gentle and comforting country Christian song that speaks to the belief in divine guidance and presence even after loss. This song offers solace by suggesting that deceased loved ones, like angels, continue to watch over and guide us through life’s challenges. It provides a sense of comfort and reassurance, particularly for those seeking to feel connected to their loved ones who have passed away.
8. Purpose — Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber’s “Purpose” is a contemporary Christian-influenced ballad that explores themes of faith and finding meaning in life through a relationship with God. This piano-driven song, while from a mainstream artist, carries a strong message of faith and purpose that can resonate with those seeking spiritual solace after loss. Its heartfelt lyrics can strengthen listeners’ connection to their faith and offer encouragement during bereavement.
9. Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven
“Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven” is a classic hymn rooted in Psalm 103, offering a traditional expression of worship and trust in God during times of mourning. This uplifting hymn encourages believers to place their emotions, feelings, and faith in God as they navigate grief. It’s a powerful hymn for communal singing, fostering unity and shared faith among mourners while providing comfort and spiritual support.
10. Broken Halos — Chris Stapleton
Chris Stapleton’s “Broken Halos” is a poignant country Christian song that acknowledges the temporary nature of earthly life and the eternal presence of angels. This song offers a comforting perspective on loss, reminding listeners that even though loved ones may depart, they are still present in spirit, much like angels who are with us but not always visible. It’s a beautiful way to honor a loved one while providing solace and unity for friends and family during a difficult time.
11. My Sweet Lord — George Harrison
George Harrison’s “My Sweet Lord” is a spiritually infused rock song that expresses a deep yearning for a relationship with God and divine protection. This song, while popular across genres, carries a strong Christian message of seeking God’s guidance and comfort during suffering and despair. Its plea for divine intervention and protection makes it a meaningful and resonant choice for a Christian funeral service.
12. Dancing in the Sky — Dani and Lizzy
Dani and Lizzy’s “Dancing in the Sky” is a contemporary Christian song that beautifully celebrates the life of a departed loved one and their faith in God. This song expresses both the sorrow of loss and the hope that the departed has found peace and joy in heaven. It poses poignant questions about the afterlife, wondering if earthly pains and fears have faded away in the heavenly realm, offering a comforting reflection for mourners.
13. Soon and Very Soon — Andrae Crouch
Andrae Crouch’s “Soon and Very Soon” is a gospel classic that powerfully affirms the Christian belief in Christ’s return and the promise of eternal life. This song emphasizes how faith in God provides strength and hope to endure the pain of losing a loved one. It’s an uplifting and faith-affirming choice, reminding listeners of the ultimate hope and reunion promised in Christian theology.
14. Jesus Promised Me a Home Over There — Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Hudson’s rendition of “Jesus Promised Me a Home Over There” brings a soulful and powerful expression to this comforting gospel hymn. The lyrics center on the Christian belief in returning home to Jesus after death, offering a message of hope and eternal rest. The song’s tone and message make it a deeply comforting and reassuring choice for a Christian funeral, emphasizing the promise of heavenly homecoming.
15. Rock of Ages — Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin’s powerful voice lends a soulful depth to the traditional hymn “Rock of Ages,” making it a universally relatable and moving choice for a Christian funeral. This timeless hymn, played in Christian funerals worldwide, offers a message of refuge and salvation in God. Its familiar lyrics and tone provide a sense of unity and shared faith, allowing funeral attendees to celebrate the deceased’s life in a reverent yet uplifting manner.
16. Angels Among Us — Alabama (Reprise)
Reiterating the comfort of divine presence, “Angels Among Us” by Alabama (listed again for emphasis on its popularity and comforting message) delves into the emotions experienced during bereavement and the belief in heavenly guidance. This song deeply explores the feelings of loss and offers solace by reflecting on the idea that departed loved ones are now in heaven, continuing to guide and watch over those left behind. It provides a profound sense of connection and comfort during grief.
17. Hallelujah — Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” while not exclusively a Christian song, has been widely embraced in Christian contexts for its themes of love, loss, and redemption. Its powerful melody and evocative lyrics resonate deeply in funeral settings, offering a sense of both sorrow and hope. Its widespread popularity and emotional depth make it a meaningful choice for commemorating a life and expressing complex emotions during bereavement.
18. Stand — Pastor Donnie McClurkin
Pastor Donnie McClurkin’s “Stand” is a gospel song that emphasizes relying on God’s strength and support through life’s challenges, particularly relevant during times of grief. While not explicitly focused on death or heaven, its message of leaning on God for strength is deeply meaningful after losing a loved one. “Stand” encourages resilience and faith in God’s unwavering support during difficult times, offering spiritual fortitude to mourners.
19. On Eagle’s Wings — Michael Joncas
Michael Joncas’s “On Eagle’s Wings” is a contemporary Christian classic, widely recognized for its comforting message of God’s protection and care, especially in times of sorrow. Famously played at funerals after the September 11 attacks, this song offers a powerful image of God carrying us through grief and loss, just as an eagle carries its young. Its message of divine protection and comfort makes it a profoundly meaningful song for the start of a funeral service.
20. Blessed Be Your Name — Matt Redman and Beth Redman
Matt and Beth Redman’s “Blessed Be Your Name” is a worship song that affirms unwavering faith in God’s goodness, even amidst pain and grief. This song serves as a reminder of constant faith in God’s guidance and presence, even when experiencing the loss of a loved one. It reinforces the message that despite sorrow, faith in God remains a source of strength and leadership, offering comfort and spiritual grounding during bereavement.
21. Save a Place for Me — Matthew West
Matthew West’s “Save a Place for Me” poignantly expresses the pain of loss alongside a hopeful anticipation of reunion in heaven. This song articulates the grief and sorrow of losing a loved one while also expressing a sense of peace and hope in the promise of an eventual reunion in the afterlife. It beautifully captures the sentiment of longing for reunion and finding solace in the belief of a heavenly meeting.
22. He’s Walking — Mark Schultz
Mark Schultz’s “He’s Walking” offers a tender and heartfelt tribute to a deceased spouse or romantic partner, beautifully encapsulating the deep emotions of loss and love. Told as a narrative, this song poignantly expresses the inexpressible grief of losing a romantic love. It provides a touching dedication to a departed spouse, resonating deeply with those mourning the loss of a partner and offering comfort through shared experience.
23. Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) — Chris Tomlin (Rendition)
Chris Tomlin’s “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” is a unique and uplifting rendition of the classic hymn, injecting it with a contemporary worship style. Tomlin takes the timeless “Amazing Grace” and revitalizes it, making it fresh and impactful for contemporary audiences. This version is perfect for funerals, memorial services, or tribute videos, offering a familiar yet renewed expression of faith and hope.
24. Footprints in the Sand — Leona Lewis
Leona Lewis’s “Footprints in the Sand” is inspired by the well-known poem and Deuteronomy 1:31, illustrating God’s constant presence and support, especially during difficult times. This song beautifully interprets the imagery of God carrying us through trials, offering reassurance that we are never truly alone, even in grief. It provides comfort by emphasizing God’s unwavering support and presence during life’s most challenging moments.
25. Dancing with the Angels — Monk & Neagle
Monk & Neagle’s “Dancing with the Angels” offers a comforting and imaginative image of loved ones finding joy and peace in heaven. The lyrics and title create a beautiful picture of the departed celebrating in heaven, perhaps even enjoying the music played in their honor at their funeral. It’s a tender and uplifting song that brings a sense of peace and joy amidst sorrow.
26. Hosanna — Hillsong United
Hillsong United’s “Hosanna” is a powerful and reverent worship song suitable for various parts of a funeral mass or service, offering a contemporary expression of praise. This well-known hymn, presented in Hillsong United’s signature style, is both classy and theologically sound, making it appropriate for church settings and funeral masses. Its reverent and uplifting tone makes it a fitting choice for honoring God during a funeral service.
27. Welcome Home — Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith’s “Welcome Home” beautifully portrays heaven as a place of rest and peace, offering a comforting perspective on death as a homecoming to God. The lyrics speak of heaven as a true home, a place of belonging and peace, contrasting with the earthly goodbye. It offers solace by depicting death not as an end, but as a welcome into God’s kingdom, a place of ultimate rest and belonging.
28. When Silence Falls/When the Tears Fall — Tim Hughes
Tim Hughes’s “When Silence Falls/When the Tears Fall” sensitively expresses the pain of grief while ultimately offering hope and acceptance. This song acknowledges the initial deafening silence and pain of loss but transitions towards hope and acceptance, suggesting that grief will eventually give way to cherished memories. It offers a realistic yet hopeful perspective on the grieving process, acknowledging pain while anticipating eventual healing.
29. Somewhere, Somehow — Michael Smith and Amy Grant
Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant’s duet “Somewhere, Somehow” offers a message of hope and enduring love, suggesting that love transcends death and continues in the afterlife. This collaboration between Christian music legends provides a comforting message of love’s eternal nature, implying that connections with loved ones persist beyond earthly life. It’s a reassuring and tender tribute, emphasizing the lasting power of love.
30. Healing is in Your Hand — Christy Nockels
Christy Nockels’s “Healing is in Your Hand” speaks to the belief in God’s healing power, suggesting that time and faith will mend the pain of grief. This song draws a parallel between the comforting touch of a loved one and God’s healing hand, offering reassurance that grief, though painful, will eventually be eased by time and faith. It emphasizes the role of faith in the healing process after loss.
31. As It Is in Heaven — Matt Maher
Matt Maher’s “As It Is in Heaven” directly references the Lord’s Prayer, expressing a desire for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven, a sentiment deeply resonant in Christian faith. While rooted in Christian theology, its message of seeking God’s will and finding peace in faith can resonate broadly. It’s particularly meaningful for those deeply connected to Christian or Catholic faith, but its themes of divine will and peace are universally applicable.
32. It is Not Death to Die — Sovereign Grace
Sovereign Grace’s “It is Not Death to Die” offers a theological reflection on death as a transition to eternal life with God and the saints, reframing death from an ending to a new beginning. The lyrics present death not as a finality but as a passage to a higher existence in God’s presence. It’s a deeply reflective song that provides a theological framework for understanding death within a Christian worldview, offering comfort through faith-based perspective.
33. Heaven Song — Phil Wickham
Phil Wickham’s “Heaven Song” is a celebratory song that focuses on the joy and glory of heaven, encouraging listeners to envision paradise as their loved one’s new home. This song directs focus towards the positive image of heaven as a glorious destination for the departed. It encourages celebrating a loved one’s entrance into heaven, offering an uplifting perspective on death as a transition to eternal joy.
34. All That You Have is Your Soul — Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman’s “All That You Have is Your Soul,” while from a secular artist, carries a deeply spiritual message about the enduring nature of the soul, which resonates with Christian beliefs about the afterlife. This song serves as a reminder that while earthly possessions are temporary, the soul lives on eternally. It offers a thoughtful reflection on mortality and the lasting significance of the soul, aligning with core Christian beliefs about the afterlife.
35. Find the Light — David Ramirez
David Ramirez’s “Find the Light” is a poetic and selfless song that expresses wishes of peace, grace, and love for another, suitable as a benediction or a heartfelt message to the departed. This song, with its focus on wishing peace, grace, and love, offers a gentle and compassionate message. Its selfless and poetic nature makes it a beautiful expression of care and goodwill, fitting for honoring a loved one.
36. When I Get Where I Am Going — Brad Paisley
Brad Paisley’s “When I Get Where I Am Going” beautifully depicts the journey to heaven as a peaceful and joyful transition to a better place. This country song vividly portrays heaven as a destination of peace and fulfillment, contrasting with the earthly journey. It offers a comforting vision of the afterlife as a place of ultimate rest and joy, making it a reassuring choice for a funeral service.
37. Ten Thousand Angels Cried — LeAnn Rimes
LeAnn Rimes’s “Ten Thousand Angels Cried” uses powerful imagery to describe the significance of a life and death, suggesting that both heaven and earth recognize the weight of such a transition. The title itself evokes a powerful image of heavenly lament and celebration simultaneously. It suggests that a loved one’s passing is a significant event acknowledged in both earthly and heavenly realms, emphasizing the value and impact of their life.
38. Angel — Sarah McLachlan
Sarah McLachlan’s “Angel” is a universally recognized ballad that speaks to comfort, solace, and escape from pain, resonating deeply with themes of loss and grief. While not explicitly Christian, its themes of finding refuge and peace “in the arms of the angel” have resonated with many seeking comfort during bereavement. Its emotional depth and message of finding solace make it a powerfully comforting song to honor a loved one’s memory.
Christian funeral songs offer a meaningful way to articulate faith and feelings during times of grief when words may fall short. Selecting the right songs can transform a funeral service into a deeply personal and positive celebration of a life lived in faith and love.
