Funeral

Diocese of Madison 1 Order of Christian Funerals


Musical Suggestions
for the
Order of Christian Funerals


Contents

Foreword…………………………………………2

Music for the Vigil (Wake)………………………3

Hymns and Songs for the Funeral Mass…………4

Seasonal Hymns and Songs……………………...5

Responsorial Psalms……………………………..6

Mass Settings/Service Music…………………….7

Songs of Farewell ………………..………………8

Music for the Committal…………………………8







Diocese of Madison 2 Order of Christian Funerals
Foreword
Music is integral to all Christian worship, including our funeral rites. It expresses feelings
and convictions beyond words and has the power to console, uplift and unify as no other human
expression. The texts of songs chosen for a particular celebration should express the Paschal
mystery of the Lord’s suffering, death and triumph and should be related to the readings from
Scripture (OCF 30-31). Music should be provided for the Vigil and Funeral Liturgy and,
whenever possible, for the processions and rite of committal (OCF, 32). Instrumentalists,
cantor(s) and even choirs should be encouraged to assist the assembly’s full participation in the
songs, responses and acclamations of these rites (OCF 32-33).
In the Fall of 1997, about 30 parish priests, liturgists, and musicians from the Diocese of
Madison were surveyed regarding the music sung at the Funeral Mass and related rites. About
half responded to the survey. The accompanying list of musical suggestions was compiled from
the suggestions submitted by those surveyed as well as by members of the Diocesan Liturgical
Commission.
This list is not intended to be a definitive list of approved funeral music, nor does it include
every suggestion made by those surveyed. It is an attempt to offer guidance and insight to parish
priests, liturgists, and musicians regarding appropriate
music for the Order of Christian Funerals, as well as
illustrating what are the current musical trends
throughout the Diocese.
The Liturgical Commission and Office of Worship
intend to update this list every few years, in order to
facilitate full celebration of the funeral rites in the
Diocese of Madison. Please contact the Office of
Worship if you have any questions or comments
regarding this list or the Order of Christian Funerals.


Abbreviations

OCF Order of Christian Funerals (the Funeral Rite)

BB Breaking Bread
G Gather
GII Gather II
GC Gather Comprehensive
MI Music Issue
RS Ritual Song
WC We Celebrate
W3 Worship, third edition



Diocese of Madison 3 Order of Christian Funerals
Music for the Funeral Vigil (The Wake)
Although it is not yet common to include music at the funeral vigil, its use is strongly
encouraged in the Order of Christian Funerals and those parishes which celebrate the vigil have
found this to be an important element. Well-chosen music can touch the mourners and others
present at levels of human need that words alone often fail to reach (OCF, 68).
Whenever possible, an instrumentalist and cantor should assist the assembly’s participation
(OCF, 68). It will be much easier to provide the musical resources necessary when the vigil is
celebrated in the church. However, a cantor (with or without an instrumentalist) can lead the
singing of simple hymns and songs at the funeral home for the vigil.
In the choice of music for the vigil, preference should be given to singing an opening song
and the Responsorial Psalm. The litany, the Lord’s Prayer, and a closing song may also be sung
(OCF, 68).

In addition to the hymns, songs, and psalms listed below, most of the music on the following
pages is appropriate for the vigil. Selections on this page marked with an asterisk (*) can be sung
without instrumental accompaniment.

Songs and Hymns for the Vigil

Title Composer /Tune Source(s)

Amazing grace* NEW BRITAIN BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
I heard the voice of Jesus say KINGSFOLD BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
I know that my redeemer lives* DUKE STREET BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
O God, our help in ages past* SAINT ANNE BB, MI, GC, RS. WC, W3
Psalm 27: The Lord is my light David Haas G, GII, GC, RS, WC
and my salvation

Psalm 27: I believe I shall see . . . Various GII, GC, RS, W3
Psalm 103: The Lord is kind Various G, GII, GC, RS, WC, W3
and merciful
Sing with all the saints* HYMN TO JOY GC, RS, WC, W3
The strife is o’er* VICTORY BB, MI, GC, RS, W3


Especially appropriate for an evening Vigil:

Lord of all hopefulness* SLANE BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
Psalm 134: In the silent hours Howard Hughes GC, RS, W3
of night, bless the Lord*
Psalm 134: Silently, peacefully, Mike Hay WC
we will rest in you



Diocese of Madison 4 Order of Christian Funerals
Hymns and Songs for the Funeral Mass
The music at funerals should support, console, and uplift the participants and should help to
create in them a spirit of hope in Christ’s victory over death and in the Christian’s share in that
victory (OCF, 31). Since music can evoke strong feelings, it should be chosen with great care.
The songs and hymns listed below are appropriate for use at funerals as opening or closing
songs, or at other parts of the liturgy (such as the preparation of the gifts or communion).

Title Composer/Tune Source(s)

All creatures of our God and King LASST UNS ERFRUEN BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
Amazing grace NEW BRITAIN BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
Be not afraid Bob Dufford BB, MI, G, GII, GC,RS
Blest are they David Haas WC, G, GII, GC, RS
Christ is alive TRURO RS, W3

City of God Dan Schutte BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS
Eye has not seen Marty Haugen BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS, WC
For all the saints SINE NOMINE BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
I have loved you Michael Joncas BB, MI, GC, GII, RS
I heard the voice of Jesus say KINGSFOLD BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3

I know that my redeemer lives DUKE STREET BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
I want to walk as a child of the light HOUSTON GII, GC, RS, WC, W3
Jerusalem, my happy home LAND OF REST BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
Jesus, remember me Jacques Berthier BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS, WC, W3
Keep in mind Lucien Deiss BB, MI, GC, RS, WC

Litany for a funeral procession John Becker Oregon Catholic Press (octavo)
Lord of all hopefulness SLANE BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
O God, our help in ages past SAINT ANNE BB, MI, GC, RS. WC, W3
O Lord, you died that all might live MELITA W3
On eagle’s wings Michael Joncas BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS

Rest in peace Russell Schulz-Widmar RS
Shepherd of my heart Francis Patrick O’Brien GII, GC
Sing with all the saints HYMN TO JOY GII, RS, WC, W3
Only a shadow Carey Landry BB, MI
The strife is o’er VICTORY BB, MI, GC, RS, W3

We shall rise again Jeremy Young G, GII, GC, RS
We walk by faith DUNLAP’S CREEK W3
We walk by faith Marty Haugen BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS, WC
We will rise again David Haas G, RS
What wondrous love WONDROUS LOVE BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS, W3


—Continued on next page
Hymns and Songs (continued from previous page)

Diocese of Madison 5 Order of Christian Funerals

Title Composer/Tune Source(s)

Especially appropriate for the communion processional (also see Responsorial Psalms below):

Eat this bread Jacques Berthier BB, MI, G, GC, GII, RS, WC, W3
I am the Bread of Life Suzanne Toolan BB, MI, G, GC, GII, RS, WC, W3
Taste and See James Moore G, GII, GC
You satisfy the hungry heart Robert Kreutz GC, RS, WC, W3

Especially appropriate for the procession to the place of committal (closing hymn/song):

In paradisum (May choirs of angels) Chant BB, MI, GC, RS, W3
May saints and angels TALLIS’ CANON RS, W3
May the angels lead you Various settings GC, RS, W3




Seasonal Hymns and Songs
Funeral music should take into account the liturgical season which is being celebrated. Easter
provides an excellent time to make a connection between the death and resurrection of Jesus
Christ and our own dying and rising to eternal life. Selections during Advent may focus on our
longing for the coming of the kingdom while music during Lent can highlight God’s merciful
forgiveness. The hymns and songs below are suggestions for the various seasons. It is not a
comprehensive list. You may sing other appropriate hymns and songs that your parish knows.


Title Composer /Tune Source(s)

All creatures of our God and King (Easter) LASST UNS ERFRUEN BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
Comfort, comfort, O my people (Advent) GENEVA BB, MI, GC, RS, W3
I know that my redeemer lives (Easter) DUKE STREET BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
Jesus walked this lonesome valley (Lent) Traditional GC, RS, W3
O Sun of Justice (Lent) Chant RS, W3

Of the Father’s love begotten (Christmas) DIVINUM MYSTERIUM BB, MI, GC, RS, W3
The strife is o’er (Easter) VICTORY BB, MI, GC, RS, W3
This is the feast (Easter) FESTIVAL CANTICLE BB, MI, GC, RS
Wait for the Lord (Advent) Jacques Berthier G, GII, GC, RS, W3
When the King shall come again (Advent) GAUDEAMUS PARITER GC, RS, W3

Diocese of Madison 6 Order of Christian Funerals
Responsorial Psalms
The psalms are rich in imagery, feeling and symbolism. They
powerfully express the suffering and pain, the hope and trust of
people of every age and culture. Above all the psalms sing of faith
in God, of revelation and redemption. They enable the assembly
to pray in the words that Jesus himself used during his life on
earth. In the psalms, the members of the assembly pray in the
voice of Christ, who intercedes on their behalf before the Father
(OCF, 25).
Since the psalms are songs, whenever possible, they should be
sung (OCF, 26). Psalm texts should come from the Book of
Psalms, and the Responsorial Psalm should never be replaced by another hymn or song, even if
that text is scriptural.
Psalms are also very appropriate for use during the communion procession. Although it is not
common in this Diocese, congregational singing during the communion procession is a
recommended practice which serves as a visible sign of unity.

Selections marked with an asterisk (*) are also appropriate for the communion procession.

Psalm Refrain Composer/Tune Source(s)

23 My shepherd is the Lord* Joseph Gelineau GC, RS, WC, W3
Shepherd me, O God* Marty Haugen BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS, WC
The Lord, is my shepherd* Various BB, MI, GII, GC, RS, WC, W3

25 To you, O Lord Marty Haugen G, GII, GC, RS

27 The Lord is my light David Haas G, GII, GC, RS, WC

42 & 43 My soul is thirsting Joseph Gelineau W3
for the living God*

63 My soul is thirsting for you Various BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS, WC, W3

103 The Lord is kind & merciful* Various G, GII, GC, RS, WC, W3

116 I will walk in the presence* Various GII, GC, RS, WC, W3

122 I rejoiced when I heard them Various BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS, WC, W3

130 Out of the depths Various BB, MI, RS, WC, W3






Diocese of Madison 7 Order of Christian Funerals
Mass Settings and Service Music
As at Sunday Eucharist, several parts of the celebration should always be sung, even if there
is no other music. These are the psalm, Gospel acclamation, the Eucharistic acclamations (Holy,
Holy, Holy, the Memorial Acclamation, the Great Amen), and the Lamb of God. Ideally, these
should be well-known by the congregation, and may be the same that are used on Sundays. The
following settings were the most-often mentioned in our survey of Diocesan musicians.

Complete Mass Settings

Title Composer /Tune Source(s)

Community Mass Richard Proulx GC, RS, W3
Danish Amen Mass Traditional WC
Land of Rest Acclamations arr. Richard Proulx GII, GC, W3
Mass of Christian Unity Jan Vermulst WC
Mass of Creation Marty Haugen BB, MI, G, GC, RS, W3, WC
Mass of Light David Haas G, GII, GC, RS
Mass of Remembrance Marty Haugen G, GII, GC, RS
People’s Mass Jan Vermulst GC, WC

Gospel Acclamations
(also see Complete Mass Settings)

Title Composer /Tune Source(s)

Alleluia from “O sons and daughters” GC, W3
(in these sources called “Easter Alleluia”) G, RS
Alleluia from “The strife is o’er” BB, MI, GC, RS, W3
Celtic Alleluia Walker/O’Carroll G, GII, GC, RS, BB, MI
Chant Alleluia Chant GC, RS, W3
Lenten Gospel Acclamation Various BB, MI, G, GII, GC, RS, WC, W3


Lamb of God
(also see Complete Mass Settings)

Title Composer /Tune Source(s)
Agnus Dei Chant GC, RS, W3
Holy Cross Mass David Clark Isele RS, W3
Psallite Mass Michael Joncas GII, GC, RS

A common and acceptable practice during the Lamb of God involves the use of tropes
(verses) to extend the length of the litany. Always begin and end with Lamb of God. Appropriate
tropes for extending the litany during funerals are Bread of Life, Saving Cup, Lord of Life, Victor
Over Sin and Death, and Passover from Death to Life. Of course, these may need to be adapted
to suit the rhythm of a particular musical setting.
Songs of Farewell

Diocese of Madison 8 Order of Christian Funerals
The Song of Farewell follows the prayer after communion. According to the Order of
Christian Funerals, there is an invitation to prayer, which is followed by a period of time for all
to pray in silence. After the silence, the song begins. The song may serve several functions:

♦ Intercedes for the deceased, that God will count him/her among the blessed, and that
God will grant him/her a merciful judgment
♦ Expresses our affection for the deceased
♦ Eases our sadness and strengthen our hope
♦ Consoles one another in the faith of Jesus Christ
♦ Prays for our own behalf
♦ Commends the deceased to the Lord

See the Order of Christian Funerals numbers 174 and 403 for appropriate texts. Although other
texts may be used, these texts serve as a model, and normally should be chosen.

Title Composer /Tune Source(s)

I know that my redeemer lives Howard Hughes, SM W3
I know that my redeemer lives DUKE STREET GC, RS, W3
Lord, our God, receive your servant John Bell GIA (octavo)
Receive his/her soul Steven Janco GII, GC, RS
Receive his/her soul David Haas RS

Saints of God Richard Proulx RS, W3
Song of Farewell Michael Joncas G, GII, GC, RS
Song of Farewell Ernest Sands MI, BB
Song of Farewell Smolarski / OLD HUNDREDTH BB, MI, WC

Music for the Committal
The community continues to show its concern for the mourners by participating in the rite of
committal (OCF, 213). The singing of well-chosen music at the rite of committal can help the
mourners as they face the reality of the separation (OCF, 214).
At the rite of committal with final commendation, whenever possible, the song of farewell
should be sung. In either form of the committal rite, a hymn or liturgical song that affirms hope in
God’s mercy and in the resurrection of the dead is desirable at the conclusion of the rite (OCF,
214). Many of the songs on the previous pages are appropriate for the committal. Note: All of the
pieces listed below can be sung without accompaniment at graveside.

Title Composer/Tune Source(s)

I know that my redeemer lives DUKE STREET BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
O God, our help in ages past SAINT ANNE BB, MI, GC, RS, WC, W3
Sing with all the saints in glory HYMN TO JOY GC, RS, WC, W3
Song of Farewell Smolarski/OLD HUNDREDTH WC, MI, BB

Diocese of Madison 9 Order of Christian Funerals
Notes


Diocese of Madison 10 Order of Christian Funerals
Notes