• Music is an important part of Catholic funeral rites.
• Music allows convictions and feelings to be expressed that words alone may fail to convey.
• Music has the power to strengthen the faith and hope of those present.

The hymns chosen should express the mystery of our salvation in Christ, namely, the saving power of the Lord's suffering, death and resurrection. Funeral music should support, console, and uplift those present and help create in them a spirit of hope in Christ's victory over death and in the Christian's share in that victory.

Secular songs (popular/non-religious songs), even though they may have been meaningful
to the deceased or the family, do not capture the Gospel message of hope nor the sacred
quality of Christian worship, and so secular songs are not appropriate for funeral services.
Secular songs would be more appropriate for a funeral reception (or for a non-religious
funeral service). Below are some hymn titles offered for your consideration. Other appropriate selections can be made from the parish worship books.

Please work with the musicians in making your selection. If there are any questions, please contact the priest or deacon assisting with the funeral services.