A Catholic Mass Card is more than just a greeting card,and the meaning of these cards transcends the paper they are printed on. A Mass card, also known as a holy card, memorial card, or remembrance card, is a memorial that lets a person know that they or a deceased loved one will be prayed for in the intentions at a Mass.Let’s take a look at what these cards are for and how they can be acquired.
Catholic Mass Cards for the Deceased
For the deceased, Catholic Mass Cards serve as a powerful memento to remember deceased loved ones. Though they may only be small cards,they are a powerful reminder of your loved one and your faith. Whether you keep it in your wallet, car, or in a safe place at home, they are there for you to reflect on whenever it is needed. Whether it is the immense power of the Mass or simply a reminder of your loved one, the power within a Mass card is great.
What Does a Catholic Mass Card Contain?
On one side, Catholic Mass Cards hold a variety of Biblical verses, imagery, and prayers designed to inspire, empower, and remind us of our loved ones and faith. Often this text is chosen specially for a loved one to remind us of them, such as a favorite verse or prayer. If the Mass Card is for a deceased loved one, it will also often contain details about them as well as including their name, date of birth, and death, and sometimes a photo.
The prayers contained within can be customized and will often reflect the loved one as well as the occasion. However,in most cases, the faithful will choose to include some traditional prayers. Common choices include the Hail Mary, which is one of the sets of prayers included in the Holy Rosary and is associated with one of the most beautiful and iconic images in Catholicism, the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. Another traditional choice is the Lord’s Prayer which pairs wonderfully with a Mass Card as this prayer is recited before communion at every Mass.
The other side contains religious images, often of the Virgin Mary, Jesus, a saint, a prophet, or another figure. This imagery which has long played a crucial role in the history of the church can be very impactful, particularly when combined with text.
What Does a Catholic Mass Card Mean?
A Catholic Mass Card means that a Mass will be offered for either the card’s recipient or for a loved one.These cards hold a meaning of love and support. However, the blessings contained within go beyond even the goodwill of the one who offers them. The power of mutual prayer has long been recognized as a powerful force.
As Pope Leo XIII stated, though the sacrifice of Mass can be offered only to God, it can be celebrated in honor of the saints who can intercede for us as well as “wash away the stains of those brethren who died in the Lord but without yet being wholly purified.” This makes a Mass Card one of the most powerful blessings that an individual can offer for both the departed and those who are still “making their pilgrim way here on earth.”
Are Catholic Mass Cards Only for Funerals?
Though Catholic Mass Cards are a wonderful way to celebrate the memory of a loved one,they can be used for many other purposes. Catholic Mass Cards can be used to bring attention to current readings or for celebrating seasons such as Christmas and Easter.
Mass Cards may also be used to bring attention and prayers to current events where they are needed.Though the sentiments and images in Catholic Mass Cards are universal, the prayers and verses within can be chosen to reflect the occasion.
How Are Catholic Mass Cards Acquired?
Mass cards are an incredible way to show care and condolences,even for those that cannot attend the mass.These cards can be acquired from a local Catholic parish or from an online Catholicretailer. A local parish has the advantage of potentially allowing the recipient to attend the mass being offered. However, often choosing an online retailer can offer a larger volume of cards for an affordable price while offering the same blessings of faith.
When Will the Mass Be Celebrated?
Depending on how the card is acquired, a particular day for the Mass to be celebrated may be possible. If the Mass Card is from a local parish, then it is possible to ask and see if a particular day for the mass is available, which may be a blessing if the one being prayed for would like to attend.
However, in larger parishes, this may be difficult because there is often a heavy demand, and schedules fill up quickly as only one person can be prayed for at every Mass. So, if the date is important, then make sure to plan for it at least several weeks in advance to make sure that you can request the date you would like.
Final Thoughts
Catholic Mass Cards are a beautiful way to connect with loved ones as well as to help them to share in the prayers of the faithful. These cards bear powerful text and images that can help those who receive them to reflect on the occasion as well as the power of faith. Whether they are offered for the deceased, the living who are going through struggles or triumphs, or simply to celebrate the season, there is no better gift to offer the blessings of faith and show love and support.
Contact Us
The SalesianSociety was formed in 1859 to form a congregation within the Catholic Church. The Salesian Mass Card websitewas formed to provide the faithful with a trustworthy way to acquire Mass Cards.For more information, call us at (617) 569-6551 and connect with us on Facebook.
