Holy Card of Saint Pancras | Devotional Card

Holy Card of Saint Pancras | Devotional Card

• Holy card or devotional card.
• 8.5 cm (3.35 in) wide.
• 5.5 cm (2.17 in) high.
• Laminated holy card in plastic.
• Includes a silver-plated metal medal with a raised image of Saint Pancras.
• Design featuring a traditional illustration of Saint Pancras, depicted with the palm of martyrdom and an open book.
• Complete prayer to Saint Pancras on the back.

History and Symbolism of Saint Pancras

Saint Pancras, a Catholic martyr from the 4th century, is known for his unwavering faith in Christ, even at a young age. On May 12, the Catholic Church celebrates the feast of Saint Pancras.

The saint was martyred at the age of 14 for rejecting the numerous rewards and privileges offered by Emperor Diocletian in exchange for renouncing his faith. Saint Pancras serves as an example of perseverance, resistance to temptation, and sacrifice for the love of God.

His tomb in Rome is a significant site for the faithful, and his figure is associated with good fortune, health, and success in business.

Popular Devotion to Saint Pancras | Patron of Work, Business, and Money

Traditionally, the figure of Saint Pancras has been associated with love for God, unwavering faith, and deep devotion.

Devotion to the saint has evolved over the centuries. Today, particularly in some Southern European countries such as Spain, Italy, and Portugal, Saint Pancras is often sought for assistance with financial and work-related issues or for good fortune in starting uncertain ventures.

There is no clear explanation for this shift in devotion, and different theories exist.

One of the most widespread theories relates to the attributes commonly depicted in images, holy cards, and paintings of Saint Pancras. The saint is generally represented with the following features:

• Wearing a Roman-style outfit, usually in green and red.
• One arm raised with the index finger extended.
• The other hand holding a palm of martyrdom and an open book.

The explanation for this evolution in devotion may be related to the book seen in representations of Saint Pancras. In this book, the Latin inscription "Venite ad me et ego dabo vobis omnia bona" can be read, which translates as "Come to me, and I will give you all good things."

This theory suggests that the Latin phrase originally had a spiritual meaning, inviting the faithful to trust in Christ to receive heavenly blessings. At some point in history, however, the phrase was reinterpreted with a materialistic meaning.

In other words, people began to believe that the saint granted material benefits to those who sought God through him.

Regardless of whether this theory is accurate, the fact remains that the saint is widely venerated and present in many events related to money and fortune. It is common for people to place Saint Pancras holy cards alongside lottery or raffle tickets.

Similarly, statues of the saint are often placed in businesses, offices, or establishments to bring success to the venture. In such cases, it is common to decorate the statue with parsley or a 25-peseta coin.

It is also common for people to carry holy cards in their wallets or purses when going to exams or job interviews.