Congregational Songs for Weddings

Updated June, 2025

Music and weddings go together hand in hand—in fact, music gives voice to the celebration in ways no other medium can! While the church considers weddings to be private family events, the gathered guests, who function as the congregation, can and should have opportunity to praise God joyously, pray for the bride and groom’s new life together, and encourage them with Scripture. Much of this can happen in song!

This article provides resources for congregational singing at weddings. Each song text has been published in either of two new hymnals: Evangelical Lutheran Worship (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 2006) and Singing the New Testament (Faith Alive Christian Resources, 2008).

If a soloist or small group sings during the ceremony on behalf of the congregation, I recommend the pairing of text and tune the hymnals provide. For some songs, I’ve recommended alternate tunes in case the suggested tune is unfamiliar to the gathered guests. Some songs will have no alternate suggestions, reflecting a “matched” text and tune.

Additional suggestions for wedding music can be found in RW 16 and 56.
 

O God, Beyond All Praising ^Perry

Jesus, Come! For We Invite You ^Idle

Although I Speak with Angel’s Tongue ^Donaldson

Where Love Is Found ^Schutte

Beloved, God’s Chosen ^Cherwien

Those Who Are Holy ^Webber

Come, My Way, My Truth, My Life ^Herbert

This Is a Day, Lord, Gladly Awaited ^Rowthon

On Eagles’ Wings ^Joncas

Hear Us Now, Our God and Father ^{Huxhold (sts 1-2), Newton (st. 3)}