Few hymns offer as much comfort and hope in the face of loss as “On Eagle’s Wings”. Often played at funerals and memorial services, its familiar melody and powerful lyrics remind us of God’s promise to carry us through the most difficult seasons of life.

Written by Michael Joncas in 1979 and inspired by Psalm 91, Isaiah 40, and Matthew 13, the hymn draws on Scripture to reassure us that God is our refuge and strength. Its most well-known refrain—“And He will raise you up on eagle’s wings”—is a poetic image of God lifting us above life’s pain, granting us rest and peace in His presence.

For those who are grieving, these words speak directly to the heart. They remind us that our loved ones are not lost but are held securely in God’s care, free from suffering. They also offer comfort to the living, assuring us that we are never alone in our sorrow. Just as an eagle shelters its young beneath its wings, God surrounds us with His protection, guiding us through the valley of grief.

Many families choose “On Eagle’s Wings” for funerals because it reflects both faith and hope. It acknowledges the deep ache of separation while pointing toward the promise of eternal life. In moments when grief feels overwhelming, the hymn becomes more than music—it becomes a prayer.

As Catholics, we hold fast to the belief that death is not the end, but the beginning of a new life with Christ. On “Eagle’s Wings” helps us remember this truth. It reminds us that God’s love is strong enough to carry us when we cannot carry ourselves and that His promise of eternal life offers peace that the world cannot give.

Whether you hear it sung in a church, played at a graveside, or whispered in your own quiet moments of prayer, “On Eagle’s Wings” can be a source of healing. May its words lift your heart, remind you of God’s unfailing presence, and give you the strength to keep walking forward—one step at a time—until the day we are reunited with those we love.

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Written By: Paige Muttillo | Marketing & Communications Manager | Catholic Cemeteries Association