Irish Funeral Hymns

Irish funeral hymns carry Ireland's rich cultural heritage and deep spiritual sentiments, blending historical melodies with poignant lyrics that speak directly to the heart.

These funeral hymns often encapsulate themes of longing, remembrance, and the Irish connection to the spiritual journey after death, making them fitting tributes during funeral services. You can always ask your funeral director for advice and help picking out the Irish funeral hymns. 

Selecting Hymns for an Irish Funeral

Choosing the right Irish funeral hymns can help convey a sense of peace, nostalgia, and the enduring Irish spirit. 

Here are ten hymns that are particularly resonant for Irish funerals, known for their deep emotional impact and comforting melodies:

1. "Be Thou My Vision" 

An ancient Irish hymn translated into English, this song is a prayer for God's leadership and presence, setting a tone of hope and strength. 

Lyric: "Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart; Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art."

2. "The Cloud's Veil" 

Written by Irish composer Liam Lawton, this hymn reflects on the presence of God even in times of darkness and uncertainty, offering comfort with its gentle melody. It can be a gentle hymn to listen to when someone dies as a comfort. 

Lyric: "Even though the rain hides the stars, even though the mist swirls the hills, even when the dark clouds veil the sky, God is by my side."

3. "Here I Am, Lord" 

Although of American origin, this hymn has become a staple in Irish funerals for its message of service and response to God's call, resonating with the communal nature of Irish spirituality. 

Lyric: "Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord? I have heard You calling in the night."

4. "Lady of Knock" 

A hymn dedicated to the Virgin Mary, revered in the apparition at Knock, Ireland. It's particularly meaningful for those seeking Mary's comfort and intercession.  The lyric of the hymn can also be used as a funeral quote or even read as a funeral reading. 

Lyric: "Golden Rose, Queen of Ireland, all my cares and troubles cease as I kneel with love before you, Lady of Knock, my Queen of Peace."

5. "May the Road Rise to Meet You" 

Based on a traditional Irish blessing, this hymn is a prayer for God's guidance and protection, making it suitable for the beginning or end of a funeral service. 

Lyric: "May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back."

6. "You Raise Me Up" 

Popularised by Irish group Westlife, this modern hymn, though not originally Irish, has been widely adopted for its uplifting message that resonates strongly at funerals. 

Lyric: "You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; You raise me up to walk on stormy seas."

7. "Ag Críost an Síol" 

This traditional Irish hymn, sung in Gaelic, talks about Christ's protection over the seeds sown by the faithful, symbolizing life's continuity. 

Lyric: "Ag Críost an síol, ag Críost an fómhar; in iothlainn Dé, go dtugtar sinn."

8. "On Eagle's Wings" 

This hymn, though American in origin, is popular in Ireland for its comforting promise that those who die will rise on eagle's wings, offering reassurance of heaven's peace. 

Lyric: "And He will raise you up on eagle's wings, bear you on the breath of dawn."

9. "The Deer's Cry" 

Also known as "Saint Patrick's Breastplate," this hymn is a prayer for protection and is deeply rooted in Irish Christian heritage.

Lyric: "Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me."

10. "Going Home" 

Adapted from Dvorak's "New World Symphony," this hymn is often used in Irish funerals for its themes of returning to a spiritual homeland, evoking a sense of peace and closure. 

Lyric: "Going home, going home, I'm just going home."