What is a St. Joseph prayer card?

A St. Joseph prayer card features a prayer to St. Joseph. The prayer asks the saint for protection and spiritual blessings. Information about the historical origins of the prayer often appear on the card. The prayer originated around 50 A.D.

The St. Joseph prayer card first appeared in 1950. Bishop Hugh C. Boyle, the Bishop of Pittsburgh, authorized the historical note.

The distribution of prayer cards is common in the Catholic Church during first communions, confirmations and funerals. Prayer cards usually include a picture of a saint along with a Bible verse or prayer. Prayer cards are also known as holy cards or mass cards.