What Is the Difference Between a Memorial Card and a Prayer Card?

When planning a funeral or memorial service, one detail that often causes confusion is whether to use memorial cards or prayer cards—or both. While the two are similar in appearance and purpose, they serve distinct roles in honoring a loved one. Understanding the difference will help you choose the option that best fits your needs.

In this guide, we’ll explain what each card is, how they differ, and which option may be right for your service. For inspiration and templates, you can explore these memorial cards.

What Is a Memorial Card?

A memorial card is a small printed keepsake distributed at funerals, celebrations of life, or memorial services. Its purpose is to provide attendees with a lasting tribute to the deceased. Memorial cards typically include:

• The full name of the deceased

• Birth and passing dates

• A photo of the loved one

• A favorite quote, poem, or scripture

• Service details or acknowledgments (optional)

Unlike full funeral programs, which include an order of service, memorial cards focus on personalization and remembrance. They often feature themes or designs that reflect the individual’s personality and life story. To see customizable designs, check these memorial cards.

What Is a Prayer Card?

A prayer card is a traditional keepsake, often used in religious services, particularly Catholic funerals. These cards include:

• A religious image or icon on the front (such as a saint, cross, or sacred art)

• A printed prayer on the back, often specific to the faith or denomination

• Sometimes, the deceased’s name and dates

Prayer cards are smaller than memorial cards and primarily serve a devotional purpose. They are often kept in prayer books or wallets as a spiritual reminder to pray for the soul of the departed.

Key Differences Between Memorial Cards and Prayer Cards

1. Purpose

• Memorial Card: Celebrates the life and memory of the deceased, often personalized with images, quotes, and themes.

• Prayer Card: Focuses on religious devotion and includes prayers for the soul of the deceased.

2. Design

• Memorial Card: Offers flexibility with custom backgrounds, photos, and layouts.

• Prayer Card: Traditionally features religious imagery and standardized prayers.

3. Content

• Memorial Card: May include a biography snippet, thank-you message, or personal tribute.

• Prayer Card: Primarily includes one or two prayers, sometimes with space for the name and dates.

4. Usage

• Memorial Card: Suitable for any type of service—religious or non-religious.

• Prayer Card: Most common in Catholic and Christian funerals but can be adapted for other faiths.

Which Should You Choose?

The choice depends on the tone and nature of the service:

• Religious Ceremony: Prayer cards are a traditional choice, often paired with other keepsakes.

• Celebration of Life or Non-Traditional Service: Memorial cards allow greater personalization and creativity.

• Both Options: Many families choose to offer both—prayer cards for spiritual attendees and memorial cards for general distribution.

What Information Should Be Included?

For memorial cards, include:

• Name, dates, and photo

• A meaningful quote, poem, or scripture

• Optional message of gratitude from the family

For prayer cards, include:

• A devotional prayer or scripture

• A religious image on the front

• The name of the deceased and service details (optional)

Design Tips for Both Cards

• Use high-quality images for clarity.

• Choose fonts that are easy to read and align with the theme.

• Print on heavy cardstock for durability.

• Consider professional printing for a polished look.

Templates for both card types are available through trusted resources like The Funeral Program Site, which offers beautiful designs for all faiths and service styles.

Why Families Value These Keepsakes

Whether you choose a memorial card, a prayer card, or both, these printed pieces provide comfort and connection. They serve as reminders of love, faith, and shared memories, becoming cherished items long after the service.

Final Thoughts

While memorial cards and prayer cards share similarities, their differences lie in purpose and design. Memorial cards celebrate life with personalization, while prayer cards emphasize spiritual devotion. Many families use both to honor tradition and individuality. To start creating your own design, explore these memorial cards for inspiration.

About the Author

Christi Anderson is the founder of The Funeral Program Site, the leading provider of funeral and memorial templates. With over a decade of experience, Christi has helped thousands of families design meaningful tributes. She is also the author of four books on funeral printed memorials, offering practical advice on creating keepsakes that last a lifetime.

You can explore her published works on her Amazon Author Page, where she shares expert tips for memorial cards, prayer cards, and funeral programs. Christi’s mission is to help families celebrate life with dignity and beauty.