Catholic Prayer Cards
Catholic Prayer Cards Catholic Holy Cards: more than a collectible
Catholic prayer cards play an important role in the Catholic faith. They're a convenient, portable visual source of inspiration, often used to convey a spiritual message. Many Catholics feel that focusing on a prayer card while they're saying their daily prayers helps them feel closer to God.
As the name implies, Catholic prayer cards are simple paper or plastic cards, about the size of a playing card. One side is printed with a work of religious art and the reverse side generally contains a prayer or daily devotional.
The History Of Holy Cards / Catholic Prayer Cards
Catholic Holy Cards were first introduced in the early 1400's. In those ancient times most people couldn't afford to own true works of art and holy cards were prints, or woodcuts, of the ancient masterpieces depicting images of Christ, his life, and the lives of the Saints.
In those days, Catholics were named for the Saints under whose feast day they were born, so it was important to them to understand their saint and learn about their spiritual life. Prayer cards provided a way to teach the stories of the Saints and were used as a source of inspiration in their prayers.
Over the centuries, holy cards became more and more elaborate - sometimes edged with intricate scroll work or lace, sometimes even backed with lace. In fact, the Valentine's Day cards we send today originated with these same holy cards.
As advancements were made in printing technology prayer cards became even more diverse, depicting images of Mary and Jesus and various Angels.
These days, while prayer cards might not be as elaborate, they're even more diverse. Many companies offer custom printing where you can include your own prayer or your own art work. Many people like to order these customized prayer cards for First Communions, weddings and funerals, especially for family members who live far away and can't attend the services.
Patron Saints Catholic Prayer Cards
Prayer cards are used to convey a number of spiritual messages. Some remind us of important events in the life of Christ, especially the Holy Days that are celebrated in the Catholic religion. Some tell the story of a particular Saint.
Collect Holy Cards To Learn New Prayers
While there is no right or wrong way to pray, over the centuries the Catholic religion has developed a rich catalog of beautiful prayers to all the different saints, to Jesus, to the Virgin Mary and for every intention imaginable. Many Catholics find it comforting and inspiring to use these traditional prayers in their devotions yet there are so many, it's hard to know where to start.
Collecting holy cards is a great way to learn these new prayers and focus your intentions while you're learning. The cards are small enough that you can tuck them into your pocket or purse and carry them with you every where you go.
Children especially like to collect holy cards and giving them as gifts for Easter, Christmas or First Communion is a wonderful way to keep your child involved in learning more about the Catholic faith.
Sets Of Prayer Cards With Medals - Patron Saint medals and prayers
Do you have an holy cards collection
Do You Collect Catholic Prayer Cards?
Add Antique Vintage Catholic Prayer Cards To Your Collection - Collect Holy Cards
Highly collectible, holy cards are an interesting paper ephemera collectible. Italian cards and lace cards are especially sought after. eBay is a good start for vintage prayer cards.
Not Interested in Antique Cards? - How about prayer cards for your Kindle?
Yes, holy cards on your kindle. Download them and you are set. Check the selection here on Amazon.
© 2012 Nathalie Roy