With Easter around the corner, some are wondering what they can give to a relative or friend who will be a newly ordained priest or deacon, coming into the Catholic Church on Easter, or someone receiving first communion or confirmation. There are many holy reminders to help that person remember their momentous occasion.
Here is a list of items to give to the recipients of the sacraments or the catechumens
Bible
One Bible that will be perfect includes a journal. It is a great way for those who want to meditate on God’s word. There is a custom option available.
Socks and T-Shirts of Patron Saints or Funny messages
For seven years, Sock Religious has grown into the most popular site to purchase religious socks and shirts. They even have their own fun, competitive Sock Madness, which coincides with March Madness; I was a recent participant.
Some items include socks featuring the most popular saints, as well as new releases like St. James, Fr. Emil Kapaun, and more.
They also have mugs with saint themes and other Catholic messages.
Rosary
Every Catholic must be equipped with a rosary. Thankfully, there are plenty of places to get the spiritual weapon for someone on the list.
Some stores to purchase the rosary are
Ruggeg Rosaries
Based in Houston, they create paracord rosaries and gunmetal rosaries. It is a replica of rosaries Catholics servicemen carried during the World Wars and were issued by the US Government.
In addition to getting a rosary in either gun metal or paracord, customers have the option to add medals of their favorite saints to the rosary, which will be seen near the centerpiece.
Rosaries by Alex (Instagram page)
A follower of mine takes requests for rosaries and can make them. Be sure to reach out for inquiries. Also, check out his Instagram account
Ghirelli (Made in Italy)
Jonathan Roumie (yes, streaming Jesus) has been promoting rosaries that are actually made in Italy. They also make rosalets (think rosaries wrapped around your wrist).
For a limited time, they are offering a commemorative rosary to mark America’s 250th birthday.
Prayer Books
One way for converts to continue on their journey is to put prayer at the center of their lives. Some prayer books would help them on their faith journey that began when they were led home to Rome.
One prayer book I recommend is the Catholic Book of Prayers
Written by Fr. Maurus Fitzgerald, it has prayers for morning, afternoon, and night in big font to make it an easy read, and it’s pocket-sized.
Another is A Prayer Book of Catholic Devotions
Written by William Storey, the prayer book includes traditional prayers and devotions while helping readers celebrate the liturgical year all year long.
My third-best recommendation is the Handbook of Prayers. It features prayers in both Latin and English. It also has basic prayers, litanies, and guides for before and after Mass.
Magnificat subscription
If you wish to go the extra mile, I highly recommend a subscription to Macgnificat. As a six-year subscriber, it has helped me lock in for Mass, especially when attending Mass during the week. What I love about it is the prayers for morning and evening, and even a reflection offered for the day that relates to the Daily Readings.
Statues of Confirmation and Patron Saints
One of the best holy reminders to give to those receiving the sacraments is to give them a statue of their patron saint. EWTN Religious Catalogue has a myriad of selections that will help in finding such.
Spring into helping those receiving the sacraments with holy reminders while helping some of our Catholic businesses.