Funeral hymn · Public domain

Lead, Kindly Light

John Henry Newman, 1833

"Lead, Kindly Light" is one of the hymns families most often choose for a funeral or thanksgiving service. The words below are free to print in an order of service.

Words

Lead, kindly Light, amid th’encircling gloom, Lead Thou me on! The night is dark, and I am far from home; Lead Thou me on! Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see The distant scene; one step enough for me.

I was not ever thus, nor prayed that Thou Shouldst lead me on; I loved to choose and see my path; but now Lead Thou me on! I loved the garish day, and, spite of fears, Pride ruled my will. Remember not past years!

So long Thy power hath blest me, sure it still Will lead me on. O’er moor and fen, o’er crag and torrent, Till the night is gone, And with the morn those angel faces smile, which I Have loved long since, and lost awhile!

Hymn books differ by a word here and there. Check these words against the book your church uses.

Print it in a programme

When you choose this hymn in Homegoing, its words are added to the booklet for you. You can also paste your church's own version. See the orders of service by church.

More funeral hymns

Abide with MeHenry F. Lyte, 1847It Is Well with My SoulHoratio G. Spafford, 1873Amazing GraceJohn Newton, 1779Rock of AgesAugustus M. Toplady, 1776Guide Me, O Thou Great JehovahWilliam Williams, 1745Blessed AssuranceFanny J. Crosby, 1873