Financial & Material Needs Prayer Cards
Complete Guide to Catholic Prayers for Economic Hardship
In times of financial struggle, Catholics have traditionally turned to the intercession of certain saints known for their assistance with material needs. These prayer cards offer spiritual comfort and practical guidance for those facing economic hardship.
Understanding Prayer Cards for Financial Needs
Prayer cards have been a cherished tradition in Catholic spirituality for centuries. These portable devotional items feature the image of a saint on one side and a prayer on the reverse. For those facing financial difficulties, prayer cards dedicated to saints associated with prosperity, employment, and material assistance can be particularly meaningful.
While prayer is not a substitute for practical financial management, the Catholic tradition views prayer and action as complementary. As St. Augustine said, “Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.” These prayer cards can provide spiritual strength while you take practical steps toward financial stability.
1. Prayer to St. Joseph for Selling a House
History & Background
St. Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus and husband of the Virgin Mary, is widely invoked for matters related to home and property. The tradition of seeking his intercession when selling a house dates back several centuries. As a carpenter who provided shelter for the Holy Family, St. Joseph is considered the patron saint of homes and real estate matters.
The popular practice of burying a St. Joseph statue upside down in the yard when selling a house originated with European nuns who would bury St. Joseph medals on property they hoped to acquire for convents. Today, many Catholics continue this tradition alongside prayer.
The Prayer
O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires. O St. Joseph, assist me by your powerful intercession and obtain for me from your Divine Son all spiritual blessings through Jesus Christ, Our Lord, so that having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of fathers.
O St. Joseph, I never weary of contemplating you and Jesus asleep in your arms. I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me, and ask Him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath.
St. Joseph, patron of departing souls, pray for me that I may sell this house quickly, at a good price, with no difficulties, and that it may be a blessing for the new owners as it has been for me. Amen.
Practical Guidance
- Pray this prayer daily while your house is on the market
- Consider placing a St. Joseph statue or prayer card in your home
- If following the burial tradition, remember to dig up the statue after selling and give it a place of honor in your new home
- Combine prayer with practical steps: proper home staging, reasonable pricing, and working with a good real estate agent
“After six months on the market with no offers, I began praying to St. Joseph daily. Within three weeks, we received two offers and sold our house for more than we expected. I can’t explain it, but I believe St. Joseph interceded for us.” — Maria R., Florida
2. Prayer to St. Matthew for Financial Help
History & Background
St. Matthew was a tax collector before becoming one of Jesus’ twelve apostles and the author of the first Gospel. His background in finance and his dramatic conversion—leaving behind his lucrative but often corrupt profession to follow Christ—make him a particularly appropriate intercessor for financial matters.
As someone who dealt with money professionally and then chose spiritual wealth over material gain, St. Matthew understands both the practical necessity of financial resources and the proper perspective we should have regarding wealth.
The Prayer
O Glorious St. Matthew, in your Gospel you portray Jesus as the longed-for Messiah who fulfilled the prophets of old and as the new Lawgiver who founded the Church and his Kingdom upon earth. Obtain for me the grace to see Jesus living in his Church and to follow his teachings in my life on earth so that I may live forever with him in heaven.
O Apostle of Christ, who left behind the gold of earth for the higher wealth of Heaven, grant me the special favor I ask [mention your specific financial need]. May the light of the Gospel you so faithfully served guide me to the true treasures that last eternally.
You who once handled money on earth, understand the burdens of financial struggles. I come before you, asking for your powerful intercession. Please present my needs before the Lord, that I may find relief from my financial worries. Grant me wisdom to manage my resources, opportunities to earn and prosper, and a generous heart to share with others. Amen.
Practical Guidance
- Pray this prayer when facing financial decisions or economic hardship
- Ask for St. Matthew’s intercession specifically for wisdom in managing existing resources
- Be specific about your financial needs in your prayer
- Consider making a charitable donation, even a small one, alongside your prayer—this reflects St. Matthew’s example of generosity
- Take practical steps to improve your financial situation while praying for assistance
“When I lost my job, I prayed to St. Matthew daily. Not only did I find new employment within a month, but I gained a new perspective on my spending habits and priorities. I now have a healthier relationship with money.” — Thomas L., Chicago
3. Prayer to St. Jude for Impossible Causes
History & Background
St. Jude Thaddeus, one of the twelve apostles, has become known as the patron saint of desperate situations and impossible causes. While not specifically a financial patron, his intercession is sought when financial problems seem insurmountable. The tradition of turning to St. Jude in seemingly hopeless circumstances dates back centuries.
St. Jude’s powerful intercession was largely unknown until the 20th century when devotion to him grew substantially, particularly in the United States. Many attribute this to his biblical letter emphasizing perseverance in difficult circumstances. Today, shrines and hospitals dedicated to St. Jude can be found throughout the world.
The Prayer
Most holy Apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the Church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron of hopeless cases, of things almost despaired of. Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone. Make use, I implore you, of that particular privilege given to you, to bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of.
Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings, particularly [mention your specific financial crisis] and that I may praise God with you and all the elect forever.
I promise, O blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor, to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen.
Practical Guidance
- Turn to St. Jude when your financial situation seems beyond human solution
- Many devotees pray a novena (nine consecutive days of prayer) to St. Jude
- After receiving help through St. Jude’s intercession, it is customary to publicly thank him and share your experience to encourage others
- While praying, work on developing a plan to address your financial situation, even if it seems impossible
- Consider consulting financial counseling services alongside your prayers
“Our family business was on the verge of bankruptcy with insurmountable debt. We began a St. Jude novena, and on the eighth day, an unexpected business opportunity emerged that allowed us to restructure and save the company. We now keep a St. Jude prayer card in our office as a reminder of this miracle.” — The Sanchez Family, Texas
4. Prayer to St. Cajetan for Employment
History & Background
St. Cajetan (1480-1547) founded the Theatine Order and devoted his life to serving the poor and sick during a time of great economic hardship in 16th century Italy. His special concern for the unemployed and those struggling to support their families has made him a popular patron saint for job seekers.
During his lifetime, St. Cajetan established hospitals and institutions to help those in financial need and to offer alternatives to loan sharks who exploited the poor. His feast day is celebrated on August 7th, and he is particularly venerated in Argentina, where many churches are dedicated to him.
The Prayer
O glorious St. Cajetan, you studied to be a lawyer, but when you felt that the Lord was calling you to his service, you abandoned everything and became a priest. You excelled in virtues, shunning all material rewards for your labor, helping the many unemployed people of your time. You provided loans without interest and you attracted rich people to contribute to your resources for people in need, including unemployed people. Look on me with compassion. I’m unemployed, and my financial resources are exhausted. I request that you present my need before the Lord God. You, who were so close to Jesus and Mary, show me the way to employment. Amen.
Dear Saint, you know that it is hard for me to have to depend on others for the necessities of life, since I so much desire to work honorably to earn what I require. Inspire me to persevere in trusting prayer, and lead me, as you would have me go, to an opportunity to provide honorably for myself (and my family). I ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
Practical Guidance
- Pray to St. Cajetan specifically when seeking employment or better work opportunities
- While praying, actively look for job opportunities and improve your skills
- Consider a novena to St. Cajetan from July 30th to August 7th (his feast day)
- If possible, volunteer to help others who are also struggling with unemployment—this reflects St. Cajetan’s own example
- Network with others in your faith community who might have job leads
“After eight months of unemployment and countless rejections, I began praying to St. Cajetan daily. Within three weeks, I received two job offers. The one I accepted wasn’t the highest paying, but it’s fulfilling work with people who appreciate my contributions.” — David M., Pennsylvania
5. Prayer to St. Nicholas for Abundance
History & Background
St. Nicholas of Myra (270-343 AD), the historical figure behind the Santa Claus tradition, was known for his exceptional generosity and secret gift-giving. Born to wealthy parents, he inherited a fortune which he used to help the poor and needy. His most famous act of charity involved providing dowries for three impoverished sisters by secretly throwing bags of gold through their window at night.
While most commonly associated with Christmas, St. Nicholas is invoked year-round for matters of abundance and generosity. His feast day is celebrated on December 6th, and he is considered a patron of children, merchants, and pawnbrokers, among others.
The Prayer
O good St. Nicholas, generous patron of the needy and model of Christian charity, I call upon your intercession for abundance in my life. You who secretly provided gold for the dowries of three poor girls, look kindly upon my material needs, that I may have enough to care for myself and to share with others.
Help me to remember that true abundance comes not merely in material wealth, but in a heart overflowing with gratitude and generosity. Like you, may I use whatever resources God provides to serve those in need. In times of plenty, keep me grateful; in times of want, keep me hopeful.
St. Nicholas, patron of generosity, pray that I may receive the gifts I need and the grace to share them wisely and joyfully. I ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Practical Guidance
- Pray to St. Nicholas when seeking not just provision but abundance to share with others
- Practice anonymous giving, following St. Nicholas’s example of secret charity
- Create a “St. Nicholas fund” where you set aside a small portion of income specifically for helping others
- Celebrate his feast day (December 6th) with special prayers and acts of generosity
- Remember that abundance is meant to flow through us, not just to us—look for opportunities to share even when resources seem limited
“I was always anxious about money until I began praying to St. Nicholas. While my income hasn’t dramatically increased, my perspective has changed completely. I’ve learned to see abundance in what I have and find joy in sharing even small amounts. This shift has brought more peace than a larger bank account ever could.” — Elizabeth T., Oregon
6. Prayer to St. Expedite for Urgent Needs
History & Background
St. Expedite (or Expeditus) was reportedly a Roman centurion who was martyred for converting to Christianity in the early 4th century. His name has made him the patron saint of urgent matters, prompt solutions, and against procrastination. While his historical existence is debated by some scholars, devotion to him is widespread, particularly in Creole and Latin American cultures.
According to tradition, when St. Expedite decided to convert to Christianity, the devil appeared to him in the form of a crow, encouraging him to delay his conversion until “tomorrow” (cras in Latin). Expedite stomped on the crow, declaring “Today!” (hodie in Latin), thus becoming the saint of immediate action.
The Prayer
O Saint Expedite, my special patron, you who know what is necessary and what is urgently needed. I beg you to intercede for me before the Holy Trinity. Obtain for me the grace to receive [mention your urgent financial need] which I ask of you so fervently.
Expedite now what is stuck. Expedite what is in limbo. Expedite this financial matter for me! May your goodness and power be a source of consolation and strength to me. I promise, Saint Expedite, to spread devotion to you and to give alms to the poor in thanksgiving for your answered prayer.
I ask you to help me overcome the vice of procrastination, and I promise not to put off to tomorrow the good I can do today. Help me to be diligent in both my prayers and actions. For the sake of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Practical Guidance
- Pray to St. Expedite specifically for urgent financial situations that require immediate resolution
- It is traditional to make a promise of public thanksgiving if your prayer is answered
- Take immediate practical action alongside your prayer—this honors the saint’s own commitment to prompt action
- Some devotees offer bread or flowers as a symbol of thanksgiving after prayers are answered
- When receiving help through St. Expedite’s intercession, be prompt in fulfilling any promises made
“I had an unexpected tax bill due in three days with no way to pay it. After praying to St. Expedite that evening, I received a call the next morning from a client who wanted to pay an outstanding invoice immediately—the amount was almost exactly what I needed. I’ve been devoted to St. Expedite ever since.” — Michael C., Louisiana
7. Prayer to St. Homobonus for Business Success
History & Background
St. Homobonus (or Omobono Tucenghi) was a 12th-century Italian merchant from Cremona who combined successful business practices with exemplary Christian charity. His name literally means “good man” in Latin. Despite being a wealthy businessman, he was known for his honesty, fair dealings, and generosity toward the poor.
Canonized just two years after his death in 1197, St. Homobonus is one of the few lay saints recognized for sanctity while working in everyday business. He is the patron saint of business people, tailors, cloth workers, and the city of Cremona. His feast day is celebrated on November 13th.
The Prayer
O Saint Homobonus, exemplary businessman and model of Christian charity, I come before you seeking your intercession for success and integrity in my business endeavors. You who combined prosperity with generosity, and worldly success with heavenly wisdom, guide me in my professional life.
Help me to conduct my business affairs with honesty and justice. Grant me the creativity and perseverance needed to overcome challenges. Bless my work that it may prosper, not only for my benefit but also for the good of my employees, customers, and community.
Remind me always that true success is measured not merely in profits gained, but in fair dealings, good reputation, and generosity toward those in need. Like you, may I never forget to share my blessings with others. I ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Practical Guidance
- Pray to St. Homobonus specifically for business matters, entrepreneurial ventures, and ethical success
- Consider displaying his prayer card in your workplace as a reminder of ethical business practices
- Examine your business practices regularly to ensure they align with Christian values of honesty and fairness
- Commit to sharing a portion of business profits with charitable causes
- Seek St. Homobonus’s intercession not just for financial success but for the wisdom to use that success virtuously
“As a small business owner facing intense competition, I was tempted to cut corners to stay profitable. After learning about St. Homobonus and praying for his guidance, I recommitted to ethical practices and fair treatment of employees. Surprisingly, our reputation for integrity has become our greatest competitive advantage, bringing in more clients than aggressive pricing ever did.” — Robert P., Massachusetts
8. Prayer for Debt Relief
Biblical Foundation
The concept of debt relief has deep biblical roots. In the Old Testament, the Jubilee Year (Leviticus 25) was a time when debts were forgiven and property returned to original owners. Jesus emphasized forgiveness of debts as a spiritual principle in the Lord’s Prayer (“forgive us our debts”) and in many parables.
Throughout Church history, Christians have prayed for relief from financial burdens, viewing such prayers not as an escape from responsibility but as a plea for God’s providence and wisdom in managing resources. This prayer card draws on that tradition, combining trust in God’s care with commitment to responsible stewardship.
The Prayer
Merciful Father, I come before You burdened by financial debt that weighs heavily upon me. You know my needs before I ask, and You care for all Your children. I place my financial situation in Your hands, trusting in Your providence and care.
Lord Jesus, You who paid the greatest debt of all through Your sacrifice, look with compassion on my struggles. Grant me the wisdom to manage my resources responsibly, the discipline to avoid unnecessary expenses, and the means to repay what I owe. Where there seems no way forward, open doors that I cannot see.
Holy Spirit, guide me to make prudent decisions. Free me from anxiety, that I may trust in God’s provision. Inspire generosity in those to whom I am indebted, and should I receive relief, help me to use my freedom to serve others.
I pray for the grace to live simply and gratefully, finding my true wealth in Your love rather than material possessions. Amen.
Practical Guidance
- Pray this prayer regularly when feeling overwhelmed by debt
- Combine prayer with concrete action: create a budget, speak with creditors about payment plans, and seek financial counseling
- Consider fasting (giving up a small expense) and using the saved money toward debt reduction
- Join or form a prayer group with others facing similar challenges for mutual support
- Practice gratitude for what you have, even amid financial struggles
- Remember that getting out of debt is usually a gradual process requiring both prayer and persistence
“I had overwhelming credit card debt that seemed impossible to eliminate. I began praying this prayer daily while also working with a nonprofit credit counseling service. Over three years, through unexpected side jobs, reduced interest rates, and careful budgeting, I became debt-free. The prayer didn’t bring magical instant relief, but it gave me peace and clarity to take the necessary steps.” — Patricia J., New Mexico
How to Use These Prayer Cards Effectively
Spiritual Practices
- Choose a regular time each day for prayer, creating a consistent routine
- Create a small prayer space with your prayer cards displayed
- Consider praying a novena (nine consecutive days) for special intentions
- Carry a small prayer card with you for moments of anxiety about finances
- Combine personal petitions with prayers of thanksgiving for blessings received
- Remember that prayer is about relationship with God, not just obtaining results
Practical Actions
- Pair each prayer with a specific practical step toward financial health
- Keep a journal documenting both prayers and actions taken
- Seek professional financial advice when needed
- Practice generosity even in small ways during financial hardship
- Share your experiences with others who might benefit from these devotions
- Remember that saints who faced material hardship themselves understand your struggles
Faith & Finance: A Balanced Approach
Catholic tradition teaches that prayer and practical action work hand in hand. While these prayer cards can provide spiritual comfort and divine assistance, they are meant to complement, not replace, responsible financial management.
St. Ignatius of Loyola expressed this balance well: “Pray as if everything depended on God, work as if everything depended on you.” This wisdom applies perfectly to financial matters.
As you incorporate these prayer cards into your spiritual practice, remember that God often works through natural means—providing opportunities, wisdom, and the discipline to make sound financial decisions. Your active participation in resolving financial challenges, combined with trust in divine providence, creates the ideal conditions for positive change.
Conclusion: The Spiritual Journey Through Financial Hardship
Financial difficulties, while challenging, can become opportunities for spiritual growth. The saints featured in these prayer cards all demonstrate different aspects of a healthy relationship with material resources—St. Joseph’s provision, St. Matthew’s conversion from wealth-seeking to Christ-seeking, St. Jude’s hope in seemingly hopeless situations, St. Cajetan’s concern for the unemployed, St. Nicholas’s generous sharing, St. Expedite’s prompt action, and St. Homobonus’s ethical business practices.
As you pray with these cards, you join a centuries-old tradition of Catholics who have faced economic hardship with faith and resilience. Your financial challenges are not separate from your spiritual life but are opportunities to deepen your trust in God’s providence.
May these prayer cards bring you comfort, hope, and practical assistance in your financial journey, and may the intercession of these saints help guide you toward both material stability and spiritual abundance.
