5 Ways to Use Christmas Cards for Prayer and Ministry All Year Long
written by Michelle Hamann
Every year, my fridge and dining room hutch start filling up with Christmas cards—some with beautiful family photos, others with heartfelt messages. It’s such a joy to hear from friends and family, near and far. But as the season wraps up, I’ve found myself wanting these cards to become more than just festive décor. Well guess what…
My Christmas card stash can be a tool for prayer, a reminder of love, and even an avenue for ministry.
And so can yours!
Here are five ways I’ve considered using the Christmas and picture cards I receive this season to keep people in my heart—and in my prayers—throughout the year:
1. Pray for one family each week
After the holidays, collect all the cards and place them in a basket near your Bible—growing up, we did this with missionary prayer cards. Each week, pull one out and take a few moments to pray for that family or individual. Whether you know their specific needs or not, ask God to guide them, to bless them, and to draw them closer to Him.
Occasionally, even shoot them a quick message to let them know they were on your heart and in your prayers.
2. Send a mid-year check-in
Around summertime (perhaps Christmas in July…?), go through the stack of cards and pick a few people to check in with. Maybe send a text or write a quick note to say, “Hey, I was thinking about you! How’s the year going?”
It’s a small gesture, but it often opens up conversations and reminds them that they’re not forgotten, even outside of the holiday rush.
3. Use the photos as prayer prompts
Many of the Christmas cards have lovely family photos. Place a few of these on the fridge or in a spot you pass by daily. Each time you see them, say a quick prayer.
It’s a simple way to cover your loved ones and friends in prayer without making it a big event—and it can help you stay connected to people you don’t see often.
4. Write encouragements based on their needs
Some cards come with notes or letters that mention specific challenges or celebrations—new babies, job changes, health issues. Throughout the year, revisit these notes and—when you feel led—send a handwritten letter, email, or text message of encouragement.
Letting someone know you’re praying for that job search or celebrating the birth of their child is a meaningful way to support them.
5. Organize a prayer wall
Another thing you could do is to create a little prayer wall in your home office (or wherever you can find the space). Pin up the cards, and every so often, pause during your day to pray for a few of the families represented there.
It’s a visual reminder then to keep people in your prayers, and it turns your busy workspace into a place of ministry.
Christmas cards can be more than a holiday tradition—they can be a way to stay connected with people and a reminder to lift them up in prayer throughout the year.
So, instead of packing those Christmas cards away or tossing them out, what if we try using them as reminders to pray and to minister in the months to come.
It’s a simple practice, but it’s one that can possibly make a lasting impact on your relationships.