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Guidelines
Liturgical season today (2026-04-15): Easter.
Sacred Music Only During Mass
The Funeral Mass requires sacred, liturgical music. Hymns, psalms, and sacred choral pieces are appropriate. Secular songs — even deeply meaningful ones like "My Way" or "Wind Beneath My Wings" — are not permitted during the liturgy.
OCF 30-31; Musicam Sacram 43
Texts Must Express the Paschal Mystery
Song texts must express the Paschal Mystery — Christ's suffering, death, and triumph over death — and be related to the readings from Scripture. Music that does not reference Scripture or the hope of resurrection is not appropriate for the funeral liturgy.
OCF 30
Gregorian Chant Has Pride of Place
The Church recognizes Gregorian chant as specially suited to the Roman liturgy and gives it pride of place. Polyphonic sacred music is also appropriate when it serves the liturgy.
Sacrosanctum Concilium 116
Live Music Is Preferred
The Church prefers live music (organ, cantor, choir) over recorded music. The pipe organ is held in high esteem as the traditional instrument of the Roman liturgy. Recorded music is generally not permitted during the liturgy.
Musicam Sacram 60, 63
Work with the Parish Staff on Music
The parish staff will help you choose appropriate music and coordinate musicians. Some parishes have a music director or organist; others will connect you with a cantor or choir. A typical stipend for musicians is $100–300. Contact the parish office early to discuss your preferences.
Congregational Singing Is Encouraged
The funeral liturgy is a communal prayer. Choose hymns the assembly will know and can sing together. Well-known hymns help people participate and find comfort in the shared act of worship.
OCF 31
What Is Not Allowed During Mass
The Church's rules on funeral music are rooted in the theology of the liturgy: the Mass is an act of worship, not a memorial service. These prohibitions come from the Order of Christian Funerals, Musicam Sacram, and the Catechism.
Secular Songs
Popular songs such as "My Way," "Wind Beneath My Wings," "You'll Never Walk Alone," or "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" are not permitted during the Funeral Mass, regardless of their personal significance to the deceased or family.
OCF 30-31; Musicam Sacram 43
Recorded Music
Recorded or pre-recorded music is generally not permitted during the liturgy. The Church requires that music be performed live by a cantor, choir, or musicians. Speak with your pastor if live musicians are unavailable.
Musicam Sacram 60
Performance Pieces
Concert-style performances, solos meant as entertainment, or music that draws attention to the performer rather than serving the liturgy are not appropriate. Music at Mass must serve the prayer of the assembly, not replace it.
Musicam Sacram 11
Secular Instruments Used Inappropriately
Instruments primarily associated with secular music (such as drum kits used in a band context or electric guitars in concert style) are not appropriate for the liturgy. Other instruments may be used with the bishop's approval if they are suitable for sacred use.
Musicam Sacram 63
Eulogies During the Homily
The homily at a Funeral Mass must not take the form of a eulogy. It should illuminate the mystery of Christian death in the light of the risen Christ. Words of remembrance about the deceased should be shared at the Vigil (Wake), not during Mass.
CCC 1688; OCF
Where Secular Music IS Allowed
The funeral has multiple parts. While the Mass has strict requirements, there are appropriate times and places for personal and secular music.
The Vigil (Wake)
The vigil is the appropriate time for personal or secular music meaningful to the deceased. Songs, recorded music, or live performances can be incorporated alongside prayers and readings. This is also when eulogies and personal remembrances are shared.
The Reception (Repast)
The gathering after the funeral is completely open to any music the family chooses. This is a social occasion to share memories, food, and comfort — there are no liturgical restrictions.
Graveside (Committal)
The Rite of Committal has more flexibility than the Mass. While the prescribed prayers and scripture should be used, speak with your priest about whether additional personal music may be incorporated.
Music During the Funeral Mass
There are seven moments during the funeral Mass when music is typically sung. Here are suggestions for each.
Entrance Hymn
Sung as the coffin is brought into the church. Sets the tone for the liturgy — typically hopeful and reverent.
Responsorial Psalm
Sung between the First and Second Readings. The cantor leads and the assembly responds. This is scripture, not a hymn — it should be one of the approved funeral psalms.
Gospel Acclamation
Sung before the Gospel reading. During Lent, the Alleluia is replaced with a Lenten acclamation.
Offertory / Preparation of Gifts
Sung as the bread and wine are brought to the altar. Family members often bring the gifts forward during this hymn.
Communion Hymn
Sung during the distribution of Holy Communion. Should reflect the Eucharistic theme and the hope of eternal life.
Song of Farewell
Sung during the Final Commendation as the priest incenses the coffin. This is the most solemn musical moment of the funeral.
Recessional Hymn
Sung as the coffin is carried out of the church. Should be hopeful and uplifting, sending the assembly forth in faith.
Need help choosing readings too?
Your parish music director will help finalize selections. These are common suggestions — availability may vary by parish.