Mass cards 'better than flowers'

A typical Mass card might read something like, "May it be your consolation to find in God above strength in His understanding and comfort in His love. This certifies the enrollment of ____ for ____ years in the Association of Marian Helpers, a spiritual benefit society."

The term "Mass card" is, in a way, inaccurate. The cards are usually "enrollment cards," which enroll someone's intention in a spiritual benefit society, according to Patrick Novecosky, communications director for the Marians of the Immaculate Conception in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. The Association of Marian Helpers has more than a million members in the U.S. and Canada.

Catholics often picture the Mass cards they send resulting in a priest celebrating a Mass in memory of their intention alone. But unlike Masses said in parishes that mention one specific intention, said Mr. Novecosky, Masses for those in the Marian spiritual benefit society simply mention the society generally during the Prayer of the Faithful, for the entire time they are enrolled.

Remembered

Societies that distribute Mass cards usually ask for a donation from those using the cards. Shrine director Rev. Jeffrey L'Arche, MS, said the donations (ranging from $1 to around $5 for a lengthier enrollment) are used to maintain the work of the religious community or are given to the priest who presides at the Mass.

The Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette have about 30 retired priests whose responsibility is to pray every day for the intentions and their benefactors. Missionaries overseas also receive many intentions.

Better than flowers

Mass cards can be used to remember the dead, but also to celebrate a birthday, console someone who is ill or even welcome a child into the world.

Mr. Novecosky said that Mass cards remain as popular as ever and added that the Marians hope to increase membership in their association over the next two years.

Using the cards

Father L'Arche said that "word travels rather quickly" through families and neighborhoods when people learn that someone has Mass cards, and people seek out the promoter to buy them. The tradition of promoting Mass cards is often passed down through families, as well.

Father L'Arche remarked that people often ask him what will happen to the prayers requested if their loved one is no longer in purgatory and doesn't need prayers for his or her soul. "I say that God is all-loving, and the intention is no doubt applied to others," he said.

(10-28-99) [[In-content Ad]]