What is the importance of the prayer card Jack gave Javier before he was deployed in the novel, The Measure?

The prayer card Jack gives Javier before his deployment is symbolic of hope. Jack originally inherits the card from his grandfather, who received the card from his friend, Simon. Jack gives the card to Javier, because it is meant to keep its owner safe. Javier clings to the card in his final moments of life, feeling more hopeful and less alone.