This post contains affiliate or associate links with several businesses (which means if you shop through the links, I earn a small commission). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ten years ago I started the Prayer Wine Chocolate blog and wrote my first Christmas Gift Guide! I called it Spiritual Stocking Stuffers – because I love alliteration and I felt compelled to encourage everyone to give at least one holy gift that reminds the receiver of the reason for the season and the cause of our joy!

Ten years later it seems God has reassured me that the mission I embraced was indeed His will! If you have not yet done so, see what God did by His grace and the holiness of MANY other Catholics. For the 5th year, The Catholics Online Community has come together to produce the Cozy Catholic Christmas Catalog.

This digital catalog is free and a work of beauty (designed by Mary Claire Scholl, owner of 12th & Blossom.)

The Best Catholic Stocking Stuffers of 2025

Before we dive into the different personalities we are shopping for, let’s just agree that a Rosary is really a great gift for our loved ones. This year, Della Rajda, owner of Della Madonna Rosaries, has gone above and beyond supporting the Prayer Wine Chocolate Ministry. One huge project Della sponsored is the new Parish Leader Kit! Her Rosaries are meant to last and be past down to future generations. If you are looking to gift a Rosary to a man or woman, child or teen, check out Della Madonna Rosaries first! I would like to thank Della publicly for being such an amazing friend to me and the Prayer Wine Chocolate ministry! Thank you Della!

Catholic Gifts for Dad’s Stocking

The Novena Rose Company has a way to deliver a practical, useful gift into a laugh, smile and at the same time, gently remind all who see it to remain virtuous!

The Novena Rose Company wants to provide you with custom services, especially with laser engraving and gold leaf gilding. I highly recommend you check out all of this shop’s collections!

Coffee lover? I found a new coffee that is SO GOOD! SEVEN WEEKS COFFEE!

I was sent some sample beans. My friend grounded them up and we had a cup together – it was SO GOOD! Seven Weeks Coffee supports pro-life organizations. I love that idea in general, but I am even more pleased to tell you that the organization they supported in October was Lily of the Valley Ministry! This delights me because I met the Founder, Whitney Whitmore, at a Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat!!!

A Miraculous Medal Visor Clip or a Miraculous Medal to wear around his neck. Telos Art sells both

Depending on your guy, he may not be ready to wear one around his neck. That’s okay, give him a visor clip for His car and Our Lady will start working on him! I stared with a keychain, now I wear one around my neck every day!

When shopping at Telos, use coupon code AMY10 for 10% off!

In short, the Catholic Stocking Stuffers I suggest for Dad and Husband this year are:

Bottle opener

Miraculous Medal

Coffee

Moms and Teen Girls: Catholic Ear warmers!

Mamas Little Loves has a great shop – you can find gifts for the whole family.

But this year I am especially loving the ear warmers!!!

I love a practical gift! Even tweens will embrace this one. Got a daughter that isn’t loving your directions to “put on your coat”!??? Give her an ear warmer!

Moms will love this too (I love mine!). It’s a gift that is practical but has that holy, prayerful, thoughtful element.

Shop Mamas Little Loves for hair bows, headbands, Catholic ties and more!

Catholic Moms and Teens Love Rosary Bracelets and Jewelry

Give Love and Blessings is such a fun shop on Etsy! From keychains, to Rosary bracelets and more, Give Love and Blessings is stylish, fashionable and reminds us to pray!

Another great shop for Catholic women is 12th & Blossom!

My friend requested a tee shirt from this shop one year and I see her wearing it all the time! My friend just bought an Advent welcome mat from this shop and I am almost always seen wearing 12th & Blossom earrings! Highly recommend 12th & Blossom!

Catholic Gifts for Baby’s Stocking

Heavens Handmaid is a shop I love for the tiniest ones on our shopping list! You have got to see the God’s Promise Rainbow rattles and loveys! So perfect for baby’s first Christmas!

A patron Saint block from Almond Rod Toys.

I love these because the child can just add this special block to his or her wooden block set! My 8 year old daughter STILL plays with hers! I have bought these blocks for my own children, my Godchildren and my nieces and nephews. They are super special!

I am going to get one this year for my one year old nephew and I’m also going to give him a wooden block set from Shining Light Dolls!

Catholic Stocking Stuffers for Boys!

To be honest, my two sons AND my daughter all love The Catholic Cartoon Collection from Voyage Comics. I already pre-ordered Volume 3! My sons are 8 and 13!

I can’t take a photo of ours because they are so loved they are falling apart – but trust me, that’s because they love reading them!

A Miraculous Medal from Telos Art or Shining Light Dolls.

Older kids: Telos Art (use coupon code AMY10)

Younger kids: Shining Light Dolls use coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE for 10% off

Also recommend mini-puzzles for stockings from Shining Light Dolls! I just bought two! One was Saint George and the Dragon! Total boy puzzle! These are great gifts and budget friendly!

Another budget friendly idea are the new Scratch Art Nativity Ornaments from Epiphany Catholic Co.!!!

Summary of boy stocking stuffers:

The Catholic Cartoon Books (and other comics) from Voyage Comics.

A Miraculous Medal

Mini-puzzles from Shining Light Dolls

Scratch Art Ornaments

Catholic Stocking Stuffers for Girls!

Catholic Keychains!

These are like the charm necklaces of the 1980’s! My eight year old daughter wrote “lots of keychains” on her Christmas list! Here are some I have either already gotten her or are consider getting her!

Give Love and Blessings keychain(s)

Team Tiny Saints

Playground Saints

Della Madonna Coral Vintage 3 Hail Marys (older girls and teens)

Accessories, accessories, accessories!

A shop I am just loving for girls this year is Peony and June!

Stickers, keychains, hair accessories, suncatchers, lanyards and more! Even phone accessories for the older girls! Check out Peony and June on Etsy here!

Girls will also love the Scratch Off Ornament and Stencils Kit. These Scratch Art books were a huge hit with all my children!

A HeWo Audio Player!

A Catholic Magazine!!

Although the Be Yourself Journal is a great gift – it won’t fit in a stocking as easily as a copy of Rooted will!

Rooted is a Catholic magazine for kids! My daughter and I have done at least one craft from it and it’s fun that comes in the mail every month!

A Catholic audio player: great for boys and girls!

This is a new Catholic gift for our family! I am excited to gift the HeWo player with a subscription to our 8 year old daughter who loves bothering my phone to listen to Saints Alive on the Hallow App and her brother’s Alexa to hear Amazon’s kid stories. Now she will have her own audio player and I think she is going to love it!

Get the HeWo player here!

Catholic Gift Idea for the person who has everything

There is a new gift idea around for home owners – door hinge toppers! Have you seen these? If you want to give a unique gift this year, definitely take a look at these Holy Hinge Toppers!!!

Ginny & Saje’s Holy Hinge Toppers are flying off the shelves!

Ginny & Saje is a great shop for jewelry, ornaments and more. Ginny & Saje contributed to this year’s Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat swag bag – each attendee was given a beautiful one decade Rosary suncatcher! My daughter wants to pray the Rosary with it – she also wants the Bread of Life necklace listed in the shop! *(She’s 8 going on 18 when it comes to jewelry!)

Ginny & Saje is also a contributor to the Cozy Catholic Christmas Catalog – don’t forget to download it today! Ginny & Sage has fun gifts for teens too!

For the Catholic who has it all, or the young adult that is getting a new phone for Christmas, OR if you are shopping for yourself – I highly recommend The Hallow App. Use my link here and get a free trial, plus you’ll help me too! I use it everyday. It helps me start my day with both Scripture and prayer! I use it when I tuck my children to bed too! I definitely recommend it!

For the Catholic Candle lover, candles fit in stockings and are a great gift!

Contemplative Candles is a newer Catholic candle shop on the scene! Made and labeled with prayers, I’m burning one as a type!

This new Catholic Candle Company is owned by Jill Reynolds who many know leads the Rosary each morning over at Many Hail Mary’s at Time! Jill and Kristin have been leading the Rosary Live each morning for years and truly believe in the power of prayer!

I think candles are a great gift and have listed Catholic candles on gift guides before. PLUS some of these candles totally embrace a holy sense of humor!!!

For example, one candle says “More praying, less talking”. That’s the label. That’s probably the first one I purchased hahahal!!!

I’m happy to introduce this newer Catholic candle company to you! Definitely take a look at the unique candle choices you’ll only find at Contemplative Candles!

You can see photos of these candles and so much more in the Cozy Catholic Christmas Catalog, get yours here!

Extra Gift Ideas for the Hard to Shop for Catholic

Teens: Get them comfy pajama pants and one of these Catholic tees. This way, if they don’t want to wear it out, they can wear it to bed ;). Other fun Catholic tees for teens here and here!

The one on your list that really needs practical gifts: I love the no show socks from Sock Religious. Someone tell my husband to buy me some lol!

The Catholic that is quiet about her faith. You might have one of these women on your list . . . she wants to embrace the faith, but she’s also hesitant.

Enter Telos Art Shop . . . the ring department! One thing I want to stress in this gift guide is the importance of every Catholic to have a Miraculous Medal. Some are not ready or willing to put one around her neck – this ring, or even the visor clips from Telos, are a great option.

That Sacred Heart Ring . . . I want one!

Gift idea for the one who is devoted to the Rosary

Della Madonna Rosaries not only makes heirloom quality Rosaries, but she also sponsored the brand new Prayer Wine Chocolate Parish Leader Kit!

Della Madonna and Julia Miller, joined together to offer a special rosary and a book of meditations that pairs each Mystery of the Rosary with a Promise of the Rosary.

This is the Rosary you will leave to your children. The book, Praying the Promises will be such a gift as you pray for your children!

Praying The Promises Full Size Rosary is one of the heirloom rosaries you can find over at Della Madonna Rosaries.

Be a Heart has a Marian Wristlet/Rosary holder that I love! Someone tell my hubby lol!

*If this list is overwhelming, find a shorter amount of options here!

Coupon code reminder! When shopping from:

Shining Light Dolls, use coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE;

Telos use AMY10;

Be a Heart PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE

12th & Blossom AMYBROOKS for 15% off

Enter the Giveaway!

One person will win:

A Rosary Bracelet from Give Love and Blessings

A Suncatcher Ornament from Ginny and Sage

An earwarmer from Mamas Little Loves

A Coffee Cozy from Heavens Handmaid

A candle, magnet and sticker from Contemplative Candles

A bottle opener and wine stopper from The Novena Rose Company

Miraculous Medal from Shining Light Dolls

A package of coffee from Seven Weeks Coffee

A Scratch Art Ornament Kit

And one more surprise! Enter to win below!

The post 2025 Spiritual Stocking Stuffers: The Best Catholic Gifts that Fit in a Stocking appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

Prayer Wine Chocolate: from blog to ministry

Years ago I started Prayer Wine Chocolate to blog about two things:

One: to share our family’s journey to adopting without paying an adoption agency.

Two: to write Catholic gift guides for Christmas.

What’s that saying . . . you want to make God laugh? Tell Him your plans.

God had so much more planned and I feel like I understand the quote, “Life with Christ is a wonderful adventure” a little better than I did ten years ago.

I hosted a Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat because I wanted to make sure I got to visit the Saint Katharine Drexel Shrine in Bucks County, PA before it closed. I also hosted it because I was a little pouty that I couldn’t go on a Wine and Shrine Pilgrimage in Italy . . . so I created a way to do something similar close to home.

I can’t help but think of the words of Archbishop Nelson Perez right now:

“Never underestimate the power of God to work in you, through you and DESPITE you!”

Since that first Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat, I’ve hosted a few more, been asked to speak at “Prayer Wine Chocolate” nights for women’s church groups and have witnessed the birth of a Prayer Wine Chocolate community in a Catholic Parish.

I am completely dazzled by the work of the Holy Spirit.

But this last one, the birth of a Prayer Wine Chocolate community, only happened because one woman took initiative and action.

Elizabeth “Betsy” Scafidi purchased the How to Plan Your Own Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat: A Guidebook and ran with it.

Betsy was kind enough to write the following description of how the OLG Prayer Wine Chocolate group came about . . .

Wondering how to start a Prayer Wine Chocolate group at your parish? Here’s how Betsy did it:

Several years ago my sister-in-law came across the information for one of Amy’s Prayer, Wine Chocolate retreats. Although my schedule was busy I figured I would just go along with it.

That day changed my prayer life forever.

As I headed home after a beautiful day that included Mass, learning about St. Gianna, Prayer, new friendships and wine, I felt more peaceful and refreshed than I had in a long time. 

I attended a few more of Amy’s retreats walking away from each one saying to myself, “I needed that.”

I began to wonder how many more women need the same things I was getting;

enrichment to my faith life,

an opportunity to pray with other women and

a place to build Catholic friendships.

So I began to ask the Holy Spirit to show me how to move forward.

One Sunday, I casually mentioned to a fellow parishioner that I was thinking about getting some of the women of the parish together. That was all it took. Those casual words took on a life of their own and before I knew it, I was talking with my DRE about my proposal for a Women’s Prayer, Wine, Chocolate Group.

The First Prayer Wine Chocolate Gathering

At our first meeting over 20 women showed up. We shared snacks, paired wine and chocolate and talked about  the retreats that started it all.

The women were given time to write out prayer intentions and we wrapped up the afternoon by praying the rosary. This was almost 2 years ago. Since then we have gathered about a dozen times.

We discuss living liturgically, participate in service projects, share meatless recipes, learn about prayer journaling and discuss Catholic gift giving all while socializing and praying. Each time we all walk away saying the same thing…

”I needed that.”

To those of you thinking about getting started I would encourage you with the words of Pope St. John Paul II, “Be Not Afraid.” Grab a retreat guide, a few friends and jump right in knowing that I’ll be praying for you!  

Prayer Wine Chocolate: Ministry and Mission

Prayer Wine Chocolate is a Rosary group that inspires and fosters amazing friendships

I sincerely hope more women start these communities at parishes. Betsy and I spoke of a mission statement for these parish groups, and this is what we feel the Lord is calling Prayer Wine Chocolate ministry to do:

Prayer Wine Chocolate provides a way to welcome and encourage women of the parish to embrace their faith more fully. By putting God first and nurturing Catholic friendships, it creates opportunities for women to grow spiritually and socially, accompanying each other as the heart of the home and parish. The time spent in communion with each other empowers women to bridge their prayer lives from the church building into their everyday lives.*

Betsy and I would love if you prayed for this ministry – and for us as we hope to encourage women like to you to start this ministry in your parish!

We’ve begun brainstorming, recruiting friends to help and praying that we can make this happen for more women seeking friendships founded in faith.

Grab your copy of the guide, sign up for the newsletter (and get a free Prayer and Pair sheet) and let’s stay in prayer and in touch!

Need a checklist? Here you go!

1. Purchase a Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat/Gathering Guide**
2. Sign up for the newsletter (you’ll get some free resources and you will know about future events, topics to discuss at meetings, etc.)
3. Start talking about starting a Rosary group with snacks. See if anyone is interested, then tell her about Prayer Wine Chocolate!
4. Schedule a meeting with your parish office and offer to run this Rosary group that will benefit the women of the parish in many ways. (*If it helps, share our mission statement above)
5. Pray for this ministry and our ability to provide more resources and support to you! **If after you purchase the guide, you’d like more help, book a consultation call with me here!

The post The First Step to Starting a Parish Prayer Wine Chocolate Ministry appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

This post contains affiliate or associate links with several businesses (which means if you shop through the links, I earn a small commission). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Years ago, when I started my first job as a teacher, I heard a quote from Mother (now Saint) Teresa of Calcutta that changed my life.

The quote was something like this, “Smile at one another, this will help you grow to love one another”.

I decided to test out this advice. I walked into my classroom and smiled at two students who clearly did not like me. I forced the smile, and I looked ridiculous. Those students looked at each other and laughed at me.

I continued to do this each day and eventually we were all laughing at me.

Those two girls and I developed such a beautiful bond! It worked, Mother Teresa’s advice worked! I write much more about this experience here: Mother Teresa’s Advice for Teachers

This Lent, I want to offer you a workbook that was inspired by that experience.

I want you to put your faith into action and see the amazing results that can and will take place.

Be not afraid! Dare to be a better Christian this Lent!

40 Truth or Dares for Lent

This challenge will work best paired with a prayer journal. In the workbook, there are spaces to write about some challenges, checklists for others. Pairing it with a prayer journal will give you the freedom to dive deep into each experience and really reflect and contemplate these beautiful acts of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. If you want to learn more about prayer journaling, take a look at my last post: The Ultimate Guide to Catholic Prayer Journaling in 2025

The Dare to be a Better Christian for Lent Workbook has 40 Challenges listed. Each challenge is inspired by Scripture, Saints and general Christian teachings and beliefs. Here are a few of them:

Truth or Dare #1: Smile

Truth: How often do you smile at people? Who are the last 5 people you smiled at while looking in their eyes?

Dare: Smile at people today. Intentionally look at people and smile at them. Make it weird.

Truth or Dare #4: Serve

Truth: Describe the last time you served or helped someone joyfully.

Dare: Help at least 5 people joyfully today. If you’re not “feeling it” . . . fake it until you make it as they say!

Dare Inspiration: The words of Saint Katharine Drexel:

“If we wish to serve God and love our neighbor well, we must manifest our joy in the service we render to him and them. Let us open wide our hearts. It is joy which invites us. Press forward and fear nothing.”

Truth or Dare #5: Give

Truth: When was the last time you gave money to a charity? What charity was it? How much did you give?

Dare: Give today. Go to a fast food place and pay extra – tell the cashier it’s for the next person’s order.

Dare inspiration: Sacred Scripture: Acts 20:35

“I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.“

Truth or Dare #8: Nourish your relationship with God

Truth: When was the last time you opened up a Bible and read it for 10 minutes or more?

Dare: Spend 10 minutes today reading the Bible. Don’t read it on your phone, pick up an actual Bible and read it for 10 minutes or more.

Dare inspiration: The words of Saint Jerome:

“When we pray we speak to God; but when we read, God speaks to us.”

Truth or Dare # #15: Fast

Truth: When was the last time you made a sacrifice for God or for poor sinners?

Dare: Drink only water today; offer this sacrifice to God.

Purchase the Dare to Be a Better Christian for Lent Truth or Dare Challenge now!

Double Dare Challenge

I want this to be something you can do all Lent. I don’t want you to feel overwhelmed or not make it through the whole season. However, on some days if you are feeling extra “into” it, I DOUBLE DARE you to do both the truth and the dare.

Use your journal to respond to the TRUTH in the morning and take the dare during the day.

At the end of the day, write how the dare went:

Did you do it?

Was it easy?

Did something unexpected happen?

Recording your response in a prayer journal to the “Truth Question” or the “Dare Challenge” will help you spend more time in reflection and go deeper into your faith and prayer time.

Why purchase the Dare to Be a Better Christian for Lent workbook?

When you purchase this digital product, you will get all 40 Truth or Dare challenges.

The workbook can be printed out, so you have that physical reminder in your sight each day.

Truth or Dares can be fun! Each challenge will allow you to spend time thinking about your faith, Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice and provide opportunities to show love for God and others!

Purchase the Truth or Dare Workbook here!

40 (More) Prayer Journal Prompts

Printable Catholic Coloring Pages

How to Plan Your Own Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat Guidebook (ON SALE!)

when you purchase any of those, you will receive a free copy of Dare to Be a Better Christian for Lent!

Get it now! 40 Truth or Dare Challenges for Lent!

Free resources for Lent!

The Dare to Be a Better Christian for Lent workbook is brand new, but here are some old but good Lenten resources from me for free!

When you sign up for my email newsletter, you receive two free Lenten resources:

The post Dare to Be a BETTER Christian For Lent appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

This post contains affiliate or associate links with several businesses (which means if you shop through the links, I earn a small commission). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Make sure you download this amazing FREE catalog that I helped put together!!! A Cozy Catholic Christmas Catalog (2024)

Don’t forget about Advent! Here’s the best deal around, but only available for a few days!!

Catholic Advent Bundle

These Catholic shops are Spectacular

Ascension Press

Highly recommend their Great Adventure Bible (See this post for who needs it: 5 People on Your Gift List that Need a Bible)

Ascension has the perfect Stocking Stuffer for you husband, Dad and brother – the newly published

Pocket Guide to Prayer.

Many men know they should pray more or would like to increase their time in prayer, but are not sure where or how to start. This book will help tremendously and simply.

Pocket Guide to Prayer is a beautiful, inspiring book written by Edward and Beth Sri, with contributor Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR, that gives anyone confidence in knowing God and building a relationship with him. As an “on-ramp” into understanding the various tools for prayer that the Church offers us, this pocket guide will help Catholics build a fulfilled and deeply satisfying prayer life. 

This short but complete guide helps Catholics enter into prayer with more consistency and devotion. It empowers anyone on their faith journey to prioritize daily conversation with God.

A great new option for tweens and young teens who really want to understand the Bible and feel that it is relevant in their lives: Biblical Heroes: Stories of Faith and Courage

Through exploring these timeless narratives, readers not only gain a deeper understanding of the Bible’s stories and key figures, but also learn valuable lessons about courage, compassion, and faith.

Our family’s favorite kids books from Ascension:

My First Interactive Mass Books (highly recommend for little boys ages 3 to 6)

Donuts After Mass: a Tale About Walking With Jesus (my 7 year olds LOVE this and it was much enjoyed by their older brother too!)

Kolbe & Co. Rosaries for the whole family!

We prayed the Rosary as a family the other day and by the end of it my oldest son held up the string where all the beads WERE before we started. The beads had all fallen off.

I had already been thinking about Kolbe & Co’s fidget Rosary for kids – and this made me think, “YEP, we need those”!

Get the kids you love a fidget Rosary or a Glow in the Dark Rosary!

Use coupon code AMY10 for 10% off when you shop at Kolbe & Co!!!

The owner of Kolbe & Co., Erica Maze, is a Catholic convert, wife and mother who’s goal is to create items to help people remember to take a moment during their busy days to PRAY, and always be able to have their Rosary with them!

Have a teenage boy or young adult son? This Everyday Carry Rosary is perfect!

Use coupon code AMY10 for 10% off when you shop at Kolbe & Co!!!

Shining Light Dolls

Whenever you shop from Shining Light Dolls, make sure you include the coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE

Shining Light Dolls has introduced some new toys this year, and my neighbor and I have decided one of these new gifts is NOT just for kids! There are Jumbo Plushes and I like to call them Catholic Squishmallows! I am going to buy many I think!

Shining Light Doll Plushes are great for all ages. The tiny ones would make a great addition to a tween gift bundle – along with the Be Yourself Journal and some other Catholic goodies!

The newest gift option over at Shining Light Dolls are interlocking puzzle brick sets (called Catholic Brick). They are similar to lego sets and they are for older kids! Do you know anyone who loves playing with Legos? This is a great gift option for him or her! One is included in this giveaway contest!

I am also loving the puzzles for toddlers and my 7 year old son keeps telling me how much he wants the Wooden Catholic Church Playset!

Definitely take a look around the Shining Light Dolls website and grab some really fun toys for your young and young at heart loved ones! (don’t forget the coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE)

Be a Heart

Be a Heart has some fantastic gifts for girls who love crafts and for little ones who still tend to put toys in their mouths and definitely still wear bibs!

Plus, I enjoy some of Be a Heart’s products too. I love their belt bag, their standing desk calendar and their journals!

The Marian Wristlet is gorgeous – great gift for teens, young adults and women!

The Catholic Fruit of the Spirit Wooden Puzzle is currently sold out, BUT is included in this giveaway! Don’t forget to enter!!!

When shopping at BE A HEART, use coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE

CATHOLIC GIFT IDEAS FOR FAMILY MEMBERS: DAD AND DAUGHTER

Gifts for Dad and Husband: Prayer book from Ascension

Daughter, age 7: Make your own Rosary kit (Saint Therese’) from Be a Heart and a fidget Rosary from Kolbe & Co.

Kingdom Come Co.

The mission of Kingdom Come Co. is to help children connect with their faith in a fun and meaningful way. This Catholic small business designs and sells high-quality clothing, toys, and other products that incorporate religious themes and messages in a modern and appealing style.

I love the toys for babies, toddlers and pre-school aged children! Take a look at this Galactic Glory Starship: Wooden Shape Sorter toy!!!

With its innovative design, the Galactic Glory Starship offers two toys in one. Firstly, the bottom half is a shape sorting toy, perfect for developing your child’s problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination. Secondly, the top half is an abacus, which encourages counting and helps develop fine motor skills.

The Galactic Glory Starship wooden shape sorter toy features inspiring Bible verses that remind children of God’s power and wisdom. Additionally, one side of the toy displays Psalm 147. The verse reads “He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name.”

This shop has SO MANY toys to choose from – plus, fun apparel too! This Saint Nick shirt I plan on ordering today!

12th & Blossom

12th & Blossom is my FAVORITE SHOP for earrings!!!! If you shop from this incredible business, use coupon code AMYBROOKS for 15% off!!!

12th and Blossom creates joyful Catholic designs for a life in bloom. From art prints to jewelry to apparel and more, our gifts showcase the simple beauty of Catholic faith and devotions.

If you have a woman on your list – head to this shop and start adding to cart!

PIETA PAPERIE

My husband and I are swooning over this shop! Catholic wax seals!!?? Yes please!!!

The Founders and creators at Pieta Paperie wants you to know this:

“We create stationery for the sacraments. Our mission is to help Catholics evangelize their loved ones through beauty.”

I met the owners of Pieta Paperie at an event last year and they are just lovely, young Catholics! I love so many of the seals they offer – it’s really difficult to pick just one!

CATHOLIC GIFT IDEAS FOR FAMILY MEMBERS: MOM AND SON

For Mom: Jewelry from 12th & Blossom and Telos; Prayer Wine Chocolate shirt and tumbler; socks from Sock Religious

For Son: Fidget Rosary (or glow in the dark Rosary) from Kolbe & Co.; Be Yourself Journal and Biblical Heroes book from Ascension; Shirt from Sock Religious; toy from Shining Light Dolls.

Telos Art Shop

My favorite necklace shop – and apparently also my daughter’s favorite necklace shop!

My seven year old daughter chose a necklace listed in the Cozy Catholic Christmas Guide for herself and I think it’s the third year in a row my daughter has chosen to put Telos on her list!

Telos is on my list too :). I have my eye on a necklace and a ring!

The simple, small but powerful, Miraculous Medal necklace I wear daily is from Telos (pictured above).

Sock Religious – not just socks!

If you’ve read my gift guides before, you probably know I love Sock Religious Socks!!! The “no-show” socks are my personal favorite!

But, their shirts are literally THE BEST! I love how this business combines humor with evangelization.

I mean, “Don’t be a loser” on a shirt with Saint Anthony???????? Take my money!!

I find that shopping Catholic for my husband and other men is challenging, but this business makes it easier.

My husband will be getting one of these shirts this year!!!

*** Husband, brother, Catholic man gift idea: Shirt from Sock Religious!!!***

Bonus idea: Give Catholic Christmas Cards out this year with the new business owned by the folks over at Sock Religious!! This new shop: OUR HOLY HOME, have given me a 35% off coupon code for you!

Yes, 35% off is you use the coupon code: AMYBROOKS

These cards allow you to insert your family photos, but unlike the secular businesses that do that, there are a variety of holy messages to choose from. Send a Christmas greeting that celebrates Christ in Christmas!

The Cozy Catholic Life

I have been admiring Rosary hangers at The Cozy Catholic Life all year! I think my favorite is the Divine Mercy one (it says “Jesus, I trust in You”, but they are all gorgeous!

I like this gift because I would hang it in my own home and it could be given as a family gift or to a newly married couple.

I also love the sweatshirts, and right now my favorite is the “Ugly Advent Sweater“!

The Cozy Catholic Life Shop has done a great job creating apparel for the whole family and resources that will help you this Advent and all year long. You’ll love the mugs too! Browse the whole shop and have fun filling your cart!

The Shop at Prayer Wine Chocolate

The Be Yourself Journals are still getting fantastic reviews!

William Hemsworth just wrote a whole article about the journal, in it he said:

“Amy did an incredible job of creating reflections that are not only challenging, but engaging. To be honest, the most seasoned Catholic can also benefit from the reflections. The book challenges our boys to become a saint, and challenges them to think about how that can happen. In addition to that, there is great material on how to apply Catholic theology in the real world.“

(Read the whole article on Patheos here)

Purchase a boy’s Be Yourself Journal here!

And Whitney, owner of Abundantly Yours Rosaries, (new Rosary called the Vine Grower!!) left this review on Amazon last week:

“This journal is exactly what I would have spent hours using as a kid. It has tons of different Catholic resources to encourage prayer & help young girls establish a relationship with God. This is my new go to gift idea for first communion, and holidays!!“

Purchase a Girl’s Be Yourself Journal here!

The journals are truly GREAT gifts for the kids you know and love!!! I have people tell me their daughters have two!!!!

For adults, don’t forget Prayer Wine Chocolate sweatshirts, tee shirts and wine tumblers are available and perfect for teachers, friends and relatives!

I honestly wear my Prayer Wine Chocolate hoodie, sweatshirts and t-shirts all the time! They are so comfortable!

Ask for one for Christmas, or just treat yourself!

Wine tumblers are great gifts – fill them with chocolate for an added sweetness!

And just so you know, the Hallow App will help you honor Advent while you prepare for Christmas! Give this gift to yourself, use my link! Hallow (Prayer Wine Chocolate)

Enter the Catholic Gift Giveaway!!!

ONE WINNER WILL WIN THE FOLLOWING:

Pocket Guide to Prayer (new book published by Ascension Press) – one copy (retails for $24.99)

One Glow in the Dark Rosary from Kolbe & Co. (Retail price $12.00)

Catholic Brick: Saint Michael the Archangel from Shining Light Dolls (Retail price: $39.99)

Fruit of the Spirit Chunk Puzzle from Be a Heart (Retail cost: $28.99 and currently sold out!!)

One Galactic Glory Starship from Kingdom Come Co. (Retail price $35.00)

A pair of earrings from 12th & Blossom (one of a kind, but earrings in this shop range from $12 to $22)

A surprise gift from Sock Religious

A Wax Seal Making DIY Starter Kit with the gun from Pieta Paperie (Retail cost: $65.00)

One copy of Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Girls

A physical copy of the Cozy Catholic Christmas Catalog

And more surprises!!!

Enter the GIVEAWAY BY CLICKING HERE!!!

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The post The Best Catholic Gifts and Spiritual Stocking Stuffers to Give in 2024 appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

Faith is a Tremendous Parachute

As I walked into my grandparents apartment I would greet my Grandpop with a Hi, how are you?

His answer would either be:

TREE-mendous

or

SPEC-tacular!

Using the word tremendous is a tribute to him. Not only because he would say the word, but also the lesson he provided with that simple one word response to a question we hear often.

How are you?

How do you respond to that question?

You would think all these years later, I would be better at responding to it. I’m guilty of saying,
“good” or “well” or even worse . . . just saying okay and listing a complaint!

As I reflect upon my Grandfather’s response, I immediately realize how incredible this man was.

You see, my Grandfather had to have both of his legs amputated. When I was asking him, “how are you” he was bound to a wheelchair- because he had no legs! And that was just one thing in his life that would give him license to say, “eh, I’m okay”.

I’ll keep the other things he was balancing in his life to myself out of respect for my family, but trust me, no one would have faulted him for giving a humdrum answer.

I want to share with you how our Catholic faith has been a gift to me my whole life, but I recognized it most when I suffered from depression in my mid-20’s.

Our secular world understands the power of an attitude of gratitude. Our faith directs us to give thanks. I think that this advice – to be grateful, was only the beginning of how my firm belief in God prevented me from doing the unthinkable.

Gratitude is the first step, not the end in a life of a Christian.

It’s a good first step, but that alone would not have been enough to help me climb out of my season of despair.

Can a Catholic really suffer from depression?

Even though I earned a BS in Psychology, I hesitated and fought with every fiber of my being the idea of going to speak with a counselor.

I mean, when I was feeling down in college, I went to the counselor’s office once or twice, but grown up world? Seeking out a therapist? No way, I didn’t need that.

But thankfully, at the age of 25, when almost all of my friends were engaged or married, I met a couple new friends.

One had a therapist she liked so much, she waited tables to pay her because she wasn’t covered by our insurance. It was this friend that suggested every night I write down 5 things I was grateful for.

Some nights, I had a hard time.

Once I thanked God for Sprite.

At least one other night I stopped at three things.

I was in a rough, dark place.

Another friend I made had gotten married, and by the time her honeymoon was over, her husband was already gone and with someone else. She had married her high school sweetheart, and it ended very quickly.

This heartbreaking situation led her to a therapist. My friend and I would go for walks and talk about our broken hearts and undesirable place in life. Eventually, this friend convinced me to go see her therapist.

I went.

It was HORRIBLE. I did not gel with this woman at all. I felt worse when I left.

But that therapist saw that we were not compatible, and recommended I go see HER therapist!

Which I did. Eventually this new counselor suggested I take medicine to help lift my spirits.

I refused.

I honestly wondered, “is it okay for me to get medication to feel happier?”

I thought, “no one living in Jesus’ time was getting medicine because they felt really sad. What is wrong with me that it’s come to a point where even the therapist can’t help me – she’s just telling me to take medicine??”

I went to a priest and asked him,

“Is it morally wrong for me to take medicine for depression? I mean, no one living in Jesus’ time was looking for a pill to make them feel less sad!”

Father John answered me with words like this:

“Let me tell you what my mom said to me. She said, ‘this world is so fast’. The world today is so much faster than the world Jesus and the Apostles lived in. Our culture and the speed of our modern day technology is affecting our mental health. It’s okay to take medicine if you need it to help you with depression. There is no sin in that.”

I don’t remember his exact words – except him quoting his mother and how she said, “this world that we live in today is so fast . . .” THAT I remember.

And friends, this was before we had smart phones.

Our world is even faster now.

Why refer to your faith as a parachute?

So, I was questioning why I use the term parachute, but as I reflected on this topic, I realized . . .

What do parachutes do?

A parachute slows the body in motion.

As I type this I can hear cars, motorcycles and trucks traveling between 40 to 60 miles an hour down a major road not so far away from my house. In the earlier hours, if the train goes by about a mile away, I can hear that too.

Not more than two feet from where I sit is a small rectangle that can enrapture me in a world of TikTok videos, Instagram reels, YouTube shorts and more.

The speed at which we can physically travel and the speed at which we are observing visual stimuli is like nothing before in human history.

Yet, if we pick up Scripture, God’s word tells us to “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)

God knows what we need. God knows what is good for us.

Good and evil are real things.

There was a time when I felt so incredibly sad, that I just wanted to jump off my roof.

But our faith teaches us that God does not want us to take our life. That simple thought is one way my faith slowed me down.

But that was only the beginning.

We live in an age where psychology is a science.

In our culture and time many people see the value and the need to seek mental health. Research has been done that proves actions, such as meditation,

elicits the relaxation response,

decreases depression

and improves over all health.

Research also has found that writing feelings down in a journal can decrease anxiety and increase self-awareness.

But our faith was teaching these things long before scientists, therapists and college professors were.

Our Lady, years before psychologists conducted experiments proving the positive impact mediation has on the mind and body, suggested that we:

“pray the Rosary every day for peace”.

In a world that doesn’t stop, our Scripture says over and over again: “Be still”.

How to battle depression as a Catholic Christian

During my twenties, I started doing two things that were so good for my soul and my mood.

I started praying the Rosary out loud with friends and I started prayer journaling.

These two things (along with the help of an antidepressant) slowed me down and helped me as I wrestled with my broken heart.

Prayer Journaling

I’ve explored the topic of prayer journaling many times since I started this blog. One helpful article that you might find interesting was my conversation with Catholic Psychologist, Dr. Matt Breuninger

What does a Catholic Psychologist Say About the Benefits of Prayer Journaling?

In this conversation, Dr. B points out that:

Prayer journaling allows us to:

• create a space where we invite God in and ask Him for His safety and comfort
• courageously approach dangerous topics

One statement made by Matt Breuninger in this talk was one he made after this point. He said:

Journaling really gives us the space to approach very difficult and painful material. It can reduce our avoidance. It can reduce our anxiety, our stress and our overwhelm. When we journal we are approaching instead of avoiding.

Starting a prayer journal, to some, is a challenge. I urge you, just start.

This post was inspired by a talk I gave on the feast of Saint Teresa of Avila, who is credited with saying, “You pay God a compliment by asking great things of him.”

Copy that quote and ask for big things.

Thank the Lord for the last breath you took.

Today is the feast of Saint Pope John Paul II. If there is one quote I want my children to always know, especially when they are feeling sad, it’s this one:

“I plead with you — never, ever give up on hope; never doubt, never tire and never become discouraged. Be not afraid.”

Write it down. Ask God to restore your hope.

If you would like more help with starting a prayer journal, here is a post for you!

How to start a Prayer Journal in Three Easy Steps

Praying the Rosary will bring comfort to your hurting heart

I feel like the Rosary is like Neosporin. It’s a little something to put on a wound that is not an instant cure, but it helps.

Praying the Rosary out loud allows those physical benefits modern researchers have been able to discover and measure.

Praying out loud with at least one person is so incredibly soothing. Don’t be shy. Find a friend or a relative and ask them to pray with you.

As I write this I am preparing for the 2024 Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat. One thing we do at every PWC Retreat is pray the Rosary as a group.

This retreat is for women – so if you fit that description, join us!! Find out more here!

The Rosary is a powerful prayer. Our Lady of the Rosary wants to pull us closer to her Son.

She’s literally throwing us a rope and pulling us up closer to heaven with each prayer.

Grab the rope. Keep praying.

One day, someone will need you to tell your whole story.

Trust me.

Until then, hang on and look ahead.

May God Bless You Abundantly,

Hugs and Prayers,

Amy

Check out this other amazing website: CatholicInfluencers.com!

The post Faith is a Tremendous Parachute appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

Make Halloween Holy Again: 5 Tricks and Tips to Celebrate, Catechize and Evangelize!

We almost left the store with no costume for my 11-year-old son.

He wanted something that came across a little too bloody, too evil, and my mom instinct said, “No, pick something else.”

And he said he didn’t want anything else.

I had to hold my ground.

As we finally started towards the check out, we spotted a Stay Puffed Marshmallow Man costume that seemed to amuse the both of us.

Thankfully, we left with a costume we both agreed upon and no one was pouting.

Honestly, I never really liked Halloween that much.

Sure, free candy and lots of it – that was nice. But I always wanted to dress up as something pretty – I wasn’t into the creative costumes other thought of or the popular scary choices.

But as an adult, I really enjoy it.

I don’t have to dress up. I love seeing the creativity of the kids who knock on my door saying “trick or treat” very softly and often timidly.

And that change in my attitude came before I was a mom.

Now, my kids make it fun and unlike her mother, my daughter LOVES Halloween.

What I really enjoy most about this holiday is that it has become a tradition that my siblings bring their children to our house and all of us go trick or treating together. My parents come over and get to see all of their grandchildren in their costumes.

And I . . . I get the opportunity to share the real meaning of Halloween.

As I grow older … and our world and culture seems to be changing rather drastically . . . I see the demonic trend and evil swing that Halloween has taken in some circles.

That walk through the Halloween store last year made it hard to avoid seeing.

But great news, we don’t need to “cancel” Halloween. It’s an incredible opportunity to teach, share and celebrate our faith. Halloween invites us to celebrate the Saints and Pray for all souls. Here are some ways you can celebrate Halloween and not sacrifice your soul.

Whether you are going to several TRUNK OR TREATS; staying at home and giving out candy, hosting a Halloween party or just want to add some holy to your treats, here are some great ideas to get you enjoying the fun on Halloween this year!

Tip #1: Skip the Halloween Store when shopping for costumes

So, my first tip – don’t shop at those stores. If you are a mom, ask your kids what they want to be without taking them to see the mask of the guy that had an ax inserted in his head with all the fake blood you could imagine.

Shop on Amazon for the costume they thought of – and that you approve of (here’s my link, thanks for supporting this blog!)

Don’t want to shop from Amazon? You might not have to! There are second-hand stores that have Halloween costumes at a fraction of the cost – go check them out! Or, maybe you could make your own! I know many of you do this already – but in my house, that’s my husband’s department.

There are plenty of fun, harmless costumes that don’t invite thoughts of murder or the demonic. Let’s embrace those and ask God to help you stay firm as your kids get older (that was an answered prayer last year)!!!

Tip #2: Have fun with Catholic Home Decor!

Here is what I have loved embracing in recent years. Partly because it gives me the opportunity to decorate for All Saints’ Day knowing my family is coming over; partly because my seven year old daughter has voiced concerns over my lack of decorating for her favorite holiday.

One year I bought a Saint Table Cloth off Etsy. Last year I embraced the skull theme with Momento Mori stickers scattered throughout my home.

Check out this piece from Ginny & Sage Catholic Designs!

This year I have my eye on these art prints and a Pax Rosa candle!

I love that in our faith, there are actually 3 days together that make Hallowtide, so you can decorate with both All Saints Day and All Souls Day in mind.

Tip #3: Consider sharing some Holy Catholic Treats

Take advantage of the fact that skulls are both holy and cool.

There are a ton of Memento Mori stickers that are visually appealing and fun!

Here are a few Momento Mori stickers I have come across!

Sweet Little Ones

Baritus Catholic

This is an incredible opportunity to evangelize!

Retro Catholic Art created the perfect holy cards you can add to treat bags – I’m thinking about giving these to my nieces and nephews this year!

These holy cards would be great additions to snack bags distributed at school Halloween parties and Trunk or Treats! You never know what good fruit may come from a little historical lesson!

Tip #4: Trade in Your “I’m here for the BOOS” shirt for a Catholic Sweatshirt or Tee

Okay, I admit it. I had a black shirt with a ghost holding a glass of red wine that said, “I’m here for the Boos” not so long ago. It was my go to Halloween shirt.

But this year, I am trying to decide on this sweatshirt from the Cozy Catholic wife or this tee from Nichole Lanthier Art. Which one do you like?

Not into skulls or want a sweatshirt you can wear all season long??? Oh I’ve got the perfect solution!

Prayer Wine Chocolate shirts are available as sweatshirts,

“hoodies”

Raglan 3 quarter sleeves

and

T-shirts!

Prayer Wine Chocolate shirts are awesome. You’ll make total strangers smile and you’ll support this blog and ministry!!!

Tip #5: Bring the Catholic Halloween Spirit Outside and Beyond the one day

One of my favorite things about Halloween is the outside fire pit, my beverage, and giving out candy to all the trick or treaters.

Where I live, it can get chilly on Halloween . . . so I love the creative genius of Worthy of Agape owner, who has Momento Mori blankets! Keep these blankets in mind when you want to get your Godson a religious gift, but still want to look cool while doing it

Do you like giving out candy while sipping on an adult beverage? If yes, I have a wine tumbler for that! One in purple and the other in pink! I am amazed at how often these tumblers come in handy! Grab yours today!!!

Got a teenage son or daughter? Whether or not they are going to a Halloween party or helping hand out candy at home; give them these little Catholic treats!

Memento Mori Retro Motel Key Chain
Key chains are great gifts for older kids – even if they don’t have their license yet!

Hosting a Halloween party for older kids? These key chains are the perfect party favor!

Momento Mori Rearview Mirror Charm from Sketch and Sentiment

Teens and young adults can celebrate the spiritual side of Halloween with Sketch & Sentiment’s Memento Mori Catholic Halloween Charm.

Encourage them to hang it from the rearview mirror to remind herself daily of the certainty of death, that life is fleeting, and should be lived in a way that will get you to Heaven! Bonus – the macrame knots are cleverly designed in a group of 10 so that our car charms can act as a decade rosary!

Does Halloween stress you out? Grab these essential oil earrings and be calm the whole day!

Bonus tip: Make it a priority to go Mass for All Saints Day!

Pray for ALL SOULS! Those who have passed on into eternal life and those who are still living with us!

Halloween does not have to be overtaken by those who are indifferent to the reality of spiritual warfare or to those who are fans of the occult. We can embrace this holiday with boundaries and intention.

We can show our children that being holy doesn’t mean being boring.

Let’s do this!

What would you add?

The post Make Halloween Holy Again: 5 Tricks and Tips to Celebrate, Catechize and Evangelize! appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

Fatima and Francisco: Why so many Rosaries? One Mom’s Perspective

When Our Lady appeared to the children in Fatima, Francisco could not hear Our Blessed Mother but he could see her.
He asked Lucia to ask if Francisco would go to heaven too, she responded: “Yes, but first he must say many Rosaries.”

There has been writing and discussions around this statement, but I feel like I had an a-ha moment regarding this lately, and I feel compelled to share it with you.

I have no theology degree. There is much written about Francisco have a contemplative spirit, and this explains why Our Blessed Mother stressed his need to pray many Rosaries.

I feel like there is another lesson for all of us here. This is from my opinion and heart.

Why would a 8 year old have to say many rosaries to get to heaven?

Francisco was only 8 years old when he saw Our Lady. He was only 8 when she said that he would go to heaven BUT first he must say many rosaries.

That always perplexed me. I researched it and read about how “experts” said it was because he is a contemplative – but still, I remain puzzled.

Until this year.

I am a mother of 3 children. I have two sons and one daughter. One of my sons is quite emotional and extremely sensitive. He experiences anxiety and is stressed by much more than my other two children.

Just recently I wondered . . . could Francisco have been like my son?

This little boy of mine that is extremely emotional also has the most tender heart. He is emotionally intelligent, empathetic and does not want anyone to feel sad or upset.

He has no skills in emotional regulation. His anxiety is debilitating.

As a mother, obviously, I want to help him. I’m not eager to give him medicine. I do know there are things that we can do that will lower stress and calm our souls.

Mediation – saying the Rosary – is one of them.

Our Lady knew the science before we did the research

I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. For years I taught Intro to Psychology to Seniors in High School.

When we would get to the chapter on States of Consciousness, we would discuss meditation.

It wasn’t until the 1960’s that scientists started to research the effects of meditation.

Since that time, here are some things they have discovered:

Meditation elicits the relaxation response;

Meditation lowers stress and blood pressure;

Meditation reduces anxiety;

Meditation reduces depression; enhances self-awareness; increased attention span; and generates kindness.

When Our Lady was telling the Fatima children to pray the Rosary for peace, she didn’t just mean in wars that were being fought far away, she was also talking about peace within.

The Rosary is a form of meditation. She knew that this prayer would help all of humanity; but some of us struggle with anxiety more than others.

As I watch my son do things that definitely indicate Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and other high anxious stress, I want to help him. I have observed how praying the Rosary as a family relaxes him.

Perhaps, Francisco was like my little boy.

Research since the 1960’s has demonstrated that those who meditate report reduced symptoms of anxiety disorders such as social anxiety, paranoia, panic attacks, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.

Read more here: 12 Science Based Benefits of Meditation

Our Lady appeared to the children of Fatima in 1917.

If Francisco’s parents were observing behaviors that I observe in my son, they weren’t talking about calling a counselor to help him.

In fact, Francisco’s father is on record saying this about Francisco:

“ He didn’t always have as much patience; and often, for small reason, he would run around like a young bull calf.“

Did you know that recent studies have demonstrated that meditation can enable people to tame their negative emotions?

In fact, researchers continue to discover more and more benefits of meditation today.

Our Lady knew the science. She knew if Francisco had trouble being still more than the average child. She knew if he had trouble regulating his emotions. She knew if he battled anxiety and excessive worrying.

She also knew that he would be facing death soon. Who wouldn’t be scared or anxious?

Having Francisco embrace the practice of praying the Rosary was a gift from a very loving Mother. She gave him a tool to help him cope with stress and fear. Isn’t this something we all want to give our children?

Let’s help our children battle anxiety with the Rosary

If you look up how to help children with anxiety, guess what’s on the list?

Meditation (here’s an article to read from ClevelandClinic)

There are many spiritual reasons to pray the Rosary. The graces and blessings that come from this prayer are abundant. But the generosity of God and the love of God and His Mother don’t stop there.

This prayer can truly calm our souls.

Friends, we live in a time when a book title The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness is a New York Times Bestseller.

Let’s pray the Rosary with our children.

Let’s teach them to pick up their Rosaries and pray it on their own.

Let’s give them this tool so they can calm their hearts, minds and souls.

The more they can do that, the better they can hear God’s voice.

Our Lady Seat of Wisdom; pray for us.

Helping ourselves and our children with anxiety

The Rosary is one incredible way our faith can help us cope with anxiety. Another way we can incorporate our faith into lowering stress is through journaling.

Learn more about journaling: What Does a Psychologist Say About the Benefits of Prayer Journaling?

Grab journals for your children! I wrote Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Girls and Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Boys

Subscribe to my newsletter and get some free stuff!

See some of my favorite rosaries here: Not Your Grandma’s Rosaries

Please shop from my store and from my friends! Help us keep talking about our faith online!

Click here to see the Catholic Influencers shop page!

The post Fatima and Francisco: Why so many Rosaries? One Mom’s Perspective appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

This post contains affiliate or associate links with several businesses (which means if you shop through the links, I earn a small commission). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

5 Catholic White Elephant Gift Ideas You Will Love

Catholic White Elephant Gift Ideas

I saw Amazon sent an email with “White Elephant” gift ideas and it made me think . . .

we could totally upscale this with gifts that spark faith and beautiful thoughts about God!

We can do so much better!

Forget Amazon’s suggestions, these Catholic gifts are so much better!

White elephant gift idea #1 – unique band-aids

One item Amazon had on it’s White Elephant Gift List was “bacon bandages”

– forget the bacon bandaids, give Jesus and Mary Bandages from Be a Heart!!! Use coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE for 10% off!

Ironically, these Jesus Bandages, are also available on Amazon!

White elephant gift idea #2 – novelty socks

Another popular item listed are socks. Amazon suggest animal paw socks??? Forget those and . . .

DEFINITELY consider Sock Religious for your White Elephant gift! So many to choose from – guaranteed to give a smile and some intercessory prayer!

White Elephant gift idea #3 – funny mugs and other drinkware

Amazon’s suggestion – heat changing Gameboy mug.

Catholic alternative: Saint Michael pixel mug

Other drinkware options:

Stainless Steel Tumbler

not so Holy Water Tumbler from Sagely Sparrow – so funny!

Have a little fun while sharing your faith with this (not so) Holy Water tumbler. It makes a great funny gift for the fun-loving Catholic in your life. Fill it with iced tea, hot chocolate, your favorite adult beverage, or plain old (not holy) water.

Enjoy hot or cold drinks on the go with this stylish stainless steel tumbler! This reusable tumbler with a metal straw is a perfect combo for hot or cold drinks at any time of the day.

A Prayer Wine Chocolate Wine Tumbler!

You can get a pink or purple Prayer Wine Chocolate Wine Tumbler!

White Elephant Gift Idea #4 – Playing Cards

Amazon had quite a few differing playing card decks on their white elephant suggestion list.

Instead of Harry Potter or World’s Smallest DOS, give Catholic Family Crate playing cards! You can purchase these from Etsy or directly from Catholic Family Crate’s website.

Catholic Family Crate has quite a few card games that our popular in our home!

In fact, many White Elephant gift suggestions were games.

If you want to give a game that a little more unique, check out The Catholic Card Game by Board Catholic

The Catholic Card Game by Board Catholic

THE GAME FOR CATHOLIC ADULTS While other party games make you feel like you need Confession after playing and other Catholic products are either too childish or too academic, the Catholic Card Game provides clean entertainment without sacrificing quality or fun.It’s easy to play, relatable, and hilarious.

White Elephant Gift Idea #5 – a candle

Pax Rosa, a new Catholic Candle Company, has a variety of styles and scents!

You can choose one decorated with some art like the Holy Family hearts candle or

one with script, like the Wedding at Cana candle.

If you want MORE Catholic Gift Ideas, be sure to check out my latest posts:

The BEST Catholic Gifts to Give This Christmas

and

Dynamic Duos: These Catholic Gifts Go Great Together

Did you love the Sears or JC Penny catalog around Christmas when you were a kid? We created a Catholic Christmas Catalog to bring back those feelings of nostalgia while also inspiring you to give and ask for Catholic gifts this year!

Check it out: A Cozy Catholic Christmas Catalog

The post 5 Catholic White Elephant Gift Ideas You Will Love appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

This post contains affiliate or associate links with several businesses (which means if you shop through the links, I earn a small commission). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Some gifts were sent to me so that I could promote them – most of which I specifically asked for because I wanted to recommend them in this list – plus, there’s a giveaway which many listed have contributed to! All opinions are 100% mine!

There are so many AMAZING gift ideas this year! It was so hard to choose. So, since I do not want to overwhelm you, I’m keeping Bibles and Rosaries out of this list because I have two posts dedicated solely to those incredibly important – and forever BEST – Catholic Gifts.

If you are searching for a Bible – go here: 5 People on Your Gift List That Need a New Bible

If you are searching for a Rosary – go here: Not Your Grandma’s Rosaries

The Best Gifts for Catholic Men in 2023

The Hallow App – one of the best gifts to give this year!

This app has revolutionized prayer for the modern man and woman. It’s convenient, it’s relevant and completely accessible. I mean, even Mark Wahlberg likes it, so it’s gotta be a great man gift!

If you have a man on your list that doesn’t know what he wants, I highly suggest giving the Hallow app as a gift!

Catholic Coffee – this is a throwback from last year’s gift guide. My husband loves the coffee and the travel mug I had claimed as mine! Use coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE for 15% off.

Want to add some humor? This fun mug “Don’t make me have to go to confession” mug or this Saint Nick mug will do the trick!

Books from Ascension Press

As the head of the family, husbands and fathers might enjoy diving deeper into our rich faith and having references on hand when insightful questions are asked.

A Catholic Guide to the Old Testament by Jeff Cavins, Jeffrey Morrow, Biff Rocha and Andrew Swafford

• Now Catholics can be invigorated in the study of Scripture, connect with the story of God’s Chosen People, and uncover new meaning in the Old Testament’s narrative with A Catholic Guide to the Old Testament. This comprehensive yet accessible introduction to the Old Testament seeks to unveil the mysteries of Divine Revelation contained in the Old Testament and unlock the hidden details of this God-given text. With this Catholic guide, readers will no longer wonder how each of the Old Testament’s books contributes to the narrative of Scripture or struggle to understand its main characters, historical context, and literary forms. 
• Catechism of the Catholic Church, Ascension Edition
• The Catechism contains the truth and beauty of the Catholic Faith’s most foundational teachings applied to the modern day. The Catechism of the Catholic Church, Ascension Edition makes the wisdom of this foundational document accessible through the Foundations of Faith color-coded approach. This award-winning, exclusive, specially designed edition clearly shows the ancient roots of the Faith and is the Catechism used with the chart-topping Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) podcast. There has never been an edition of the Catechism so revolutionary for Catholics seeking to understand the teachings of the Catholic Faith.

All time classic: Candy made by the Trappistine’s. My dad says it “tastes heavenly”!

Sock Religious had fantastic gifts! This small business was started by a Catholic husband and is an overall great company. These gifts are practical and bring about a smile to those who receive it. I gave my brother the Saint Anthony ones because he is ALWAYS looking for his keys, phone, wallet . . . He appreciated them and wears them too!

The Best Gifts for Catholic Women in 2023

Let’s start with a few of my FAVORITE CATHOLIC THINGS!

A Prayer Wine Chocolate Sweatshirt and/or a Prayer Wine Chocolate tumbler!

I wear my PWC sweatshirts often – just because they are so comfortable! The other day I was wearing it food shopping and another customer looked at my shirt, read it out loud, smiled and said “LOVE IT” and then he said, “my wife would love that”. His smile was contagious. I saw him three isles later and he was still smiling and complimented my shirt again. I said, “always prayer first” and he said “AMEN”.

It put extra joy in my day!

The tumbler is great for BYO events! It’s also nice to have if you like to sit outside around a fire and have a glass of wine

My three “everyday” Catholic products are

my Miraculous Medal necklace from Telos Jewelry

and my belt bag from Be a Heart and

my earrings from 12th & Blossom!

I can honestly say I use and wear these daily!

My favorite new products are:

My brand new Rosary pouch from The Cozy Wife!!!

My rosaries have been haphazardly in my purses for years. I can not wait to give at least on Rosary a home in this adorable pouch (mine is purple with a rainbow on it)! Remember, if you want to gift someone a pouch and a Rosary, check out my Not Your Grandma’s Rosary post!

The Cozy Wife’s shop should win an award for “best stocking stuffer ideas” for Catholics this year! Those keychains and stickers, plus the Rosary pouches and the cozies – yes please!!!

A new book! I highly recommend giving Theology of Style: Expressing the Unique and Unrepeatable You

I am diving in and taking notes right now. I’m learning so much. I highly recommend this book to women who have young daughters. There’s a ton of “styles” out there now that do not reflect the immense beauty God created in each young woman. This book will help when conversations arise that involve modesty and simply making the best decisions, without compromising each individual’s unique identity.

More ideas for women:

Catholic Candle from Pax Rosa

Choose Joy Mug from His Girl Sunday/ Liturgy Market

Sock Religious “no show” socks.

Jewelry from Telos Art! I not only wear it, but I like to gift it too Use code AMY10

The Hallow App! Women LOVE this app. I starting using it about a month ago. Not only do I use it for my own prayer and learning, but my daughter loves listening to the Saint Stories for kids that are also on this app! When she was home sick and I was working around the house, she was so content and peaceful listening and learning about the Saints!

The Best Gifts For Catholic Teens and College Students

For teen girls, think cozy! A blanket, a hot cocoa or coffee mug and a book!!

A blanket and a book are a great gift combo! I found Catholic blankets that teens will love at BlessedBeGodBoutique!!

Since this age can be a challenge with all things, faith is not always their favorite thing. So, I’ve kept that in mind with these gift ideas.

One book I suggest is a new YA novel written by Catholic Author Ginny Kochis. Although she is Catholic, this novel, Blink and We’ll Miss It, is categorized as “clean and wholesome romance”.

“Blink and We’ll Miss It is a poignant, swoon-worthy novel about finding the strength to forgive, the courage to move forward, and the vulnerability to fall in love.”

Just picture your favorite teen all cuddled up in a blanket with a prayer on it, holding her Catholic mug and reading a book that is good for her soul! Love it!

Simple yet faithful sweatshirt! This be not afraid sweatshirt has the right dose of faith for a teen!

Fun Catholic gifts under $25 dollars:

Catholic keychains, these from The Cozy Wife are my first recommendation!

Catholic Friendship bracelets from Refuge Rosaries (know any Taylor Swift fans???)

Saint Andrew Bracelet from House of Love and Laughter. I love this bracelet for two reasons – one, it’s so pretty and two, it may teach the teen about the Christmas novena – which encourages them to pray every day in Advent!

Catholic Gift Ideas for Teen Boys

A Saint Benedict Crucifix

Last year, my friend’s teen son specifically asked for a crucifix necklace to wear around his neck. This year, when I asked for gift suggestions for teen boys, another friend stated:

“My teen boy says a cross necklace, bc every guy wants a chain!“

This seems to be a welcome gift to young men. I chose to highlight the Saint Benedict Crucifix because it also includes a St. Benedict medal!

If you’d like to see another option, check out Studded Silver Crucifix, also available from Telos.

For teen boys, Voyage Comics is definitely a great store to grab a few things from! Not only do they have comics (and artists that have worked for Marvel), but they also have a section called Voyage Classics, non-fiction books, apparel and more!

Mind Quiet Heart Open Adoration Companion for Teens

My friend Holly wrote this and I think it’s awesome! One reviewer shared on Amazon:

My teen son loves the look of this adoration companion. He appreciates the examen as well as the thought provoking pages that help him focus on Jesus while he’s in His presence. Bonus is that it’s not “girly” but can be enjoyed and used by either males or females. It’s a great value for what you get!

Add this fidget pen for extra fun!

Sock Religious is a great gift!

The Best Gifts for Catholic Kids

For older boys:

Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Boys and this pen!!

I am so delighted to share that this book is climbing the charts over on Amazon. Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Boys is close to being in the Top 100 in several categories, which include Children’s Inspirational Books and Children’s Christian Prayer Books!

I wrote this book with boy’s interests in mind. Lots of crossing out instead of circling; a graffiti wall activity; making a plan (instead of writing a list); plus spiritual warfare and spiritual exercises that involve sports. PLUS, you can totally level-up your journal gift with this Upgrade Fidget Pen!

My 11 year old LOVES Voyage Comics! Highly recommend perusing their website and ordering a few things. Totally affordable, definitely a great gift!!!

For older girls (the tween years):

A blanket and a Be Yourself Journal!!! In a world that is sending so many confusing messages, the Be Yourself Journal invites girls to explore their identity with hope and joy! They learn what it means to know, love and serve the Lord and how that is an incredibly rewarding adventure!

The book has plenty of places to color, a “prayer style” quiz, letters from Saints and even a two-page spread where girls can “design a prayer room”. There are some pages that are “just for fun” and others that will help navigate feelings and develop a prayer life. I just talked to an older teen yesterday and she told me when she got the Be Yourself Journal – around the age of 11 – she “used her journal every day!!”

I think the perfect blanket to pair with this journal would be the Fruits of the Spirit blanket by Blessed Be God Boutique!

And the just released Catholic Friendship bracelets from Refuge Rosaries (know any Taylor Swift fans???)

For both boys and girls (ages 3 to 7)

My 6 year old twins love playing with Saintly Heart’s alphabet puzzle! Especially my 6-year old boy!

My daughter loves playing with blocks, and Saintly Heart’s Saint blocks are her favorite! (We add them in to our wooden block collection and it really does increase the fun!!!)

All 3 of my children enjoy playing Catholic Family Crate’s card games and really enjoy their Pray By Sticker Books! Shop Catholic Family Crate for joint family gifts or that child on your list that loves games and the “paint by sticker” activity books!

Sock Religious kid socks! I’m so excited to give my daughter the Saint Therese’ ones this year. Both my sons already have several pairs!

Shining Light dolls – this store just keeps getting bigger and better!

Our twins love doing the puzzles, my older son loves the wooden Mass kit, the rag dolls and re-usable sticker activity books are just a few of the incredible toys you’ll find at Shining Light Dolls!

I bought my niece a plush Jesus doll from Shining Light Dolls and her sister kept taking it. My brother ended up ordering her sister one because it was loved by both of them so much!!!

Their new Advent Wreath for kids is AMAZING! They also have play Saint candles!!

My 6-year-old daughter just came in and gave me another idea (she pointed to this beautiful necklace and said “I want this!!!”. She loves jewelry and keychains. This 12th & Blossom necklace is lovely and since she seems to have a bond with the Little Flower, I might just get it for her!

Books!

Books are such great gifts for kids. My children LOVE being read to and it really can spark some beautiful conversations.

A few months ago, my daughter told me “The Night the Saints Saved Christmas” was her “favorite Saint book”. For my son (and me, let’s be honest hahaha) I just bought the new Saintly Creatures: 14 Tales of Animals and Their Holy Companions book published by Word on Fire.

I have also had my eye on this one:

The Mass and the Manger: My Interactive Christmas Story by Jennifer Sharpe

• This creative Christmas story is designed to guide children ages 6–10 in discovering the profound meaning of Christmas and its connection to the Mass. Beautiful text and pictures tell the story of the first Christmas while full-page flaps unfold a parallel story as a boy and his younger sister meet Jesus in the Eucharist at midnight Mass on Christmas. By interacting with the flaps, children will discover the parallels of the nativity story and the Mass, and enter deeper into Christmas. Featuring rhyming text, vibrant illustrations, and full-page, open-out flaps, this book helps parents make Christmas spiritually meaningful for children.

Catholic Christmas Gifts for Babies and Toddlers

Shining Light Dolls has teethers, wooden toys, dolls and more!

The Little Rose Shop introduced the “Where is Jesus Quiet Book” and I thing it’s the most adorable fabric book I have ever seen!

A Nativity Set from Saintly Heart or a simple Crucifix from Rough to Rustic are also great baby and toddler gifts!

More gift ideas here: The Cozy Catholic Christmas Catalog

A Marian Spinner form Studio Senn

 Marian spinners let children discover Mary in a unique and tactile way. Maybe they want Mary to have a beautiful crown, holding baby Jesus, with an angel beneath her feet? Or angels surrounding her, in a fancy dress, and clouds holding her up? All these aspects of Mary work together to create our Blessed Mother.

Please note, older children will “borrow” this toy from time to time!

Studio Senn also came out with a Catholic Seek and Find Book this year!

More gift ideas here: The Cozy Catholic Christmas Catalog

Enter the GIVEAWAY!!!

ONE PERSON WILL WIN:

A chrism candle from Pax Rosa

A blanket from Blessed Be God Boutique

3 Books from Ascension Press: The Mass and the Manger, Theology of Style and A Catholic Guide to the Old Testament

Stickers from The Cozy Wife

Several gifts from Shining Light Dolls

A pair of earrings from 12th & Blossom

A card game and a bag from Catholic Family Crate

and MORE!!! (let me surprise you!!!)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post The BEST Catholic Gifts to Give in 2023 appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

This post contains affiliate or associate links with several businesses (which means if you shop through the links, I earn a small commission). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Ascension Great Adventure Bible and the OSV Blessed is She Catholic Notetaking Bible were both given to me in exchange for an honest review, as was a free trial of the Hallow app.

When my husband and I got married, we received many gifts.

Most of them, were monetary.

But one gift was a Bible.

The white Catholic Bible we were given on our wedding day was from Matt’s Aunt Betty Ann.

Aunt Betty Ann is often known by another title. That title is Sister Betty Ann, IHM.

I have no relatives that chose the religious life. Matt having an Aunt that is a religious sister is such a blessing.

I have to be honest, when I first opened that gift – the Bible – I thought:

“That’s sweet. Her vow of poverty limits her on how much she can give, but this is such a kind gift”.

17 years later I realize that gift was of far more value than I realized back then.

This Bible has been our only Bible for most of our marriage!

5 People on Your Gift List that need a New Bible

1. A Gift for the engaged couple or newlyweds

What dawned on me lately is if we only have a Bible because Matt’s Aunt is a religious sister and she gave us one for our wedding gift – how many Catholic couples and families DO NOT have a Bible!???

I mean, I had another Bible when we got married – but that was my Bible from my sophomore year of high school.

I went to a Catholic High School and we were required to have a Bible that year for Religion class.

And once again, it dawns on me . . .

How many Catholics have not gone to Catholic school? How many went to Catholic school but were never required to have their own copy of a Bible?

So, this year, before I write another Catholic Christmas Gift Guide, I want to STRONGLY ENCOURAGE you to buy someone a Catholic Bible for Christmas this year.

The one Aunt Betty Anne gave Matt and I is the New American Bible Saint Joseph Edition

It has served us well

in the past few years, some other great options have been published.

2. A Gift for the new convert to Catholicism or the couple you know where one is Catholic, the other is a non-Catholic

Ascension’s Great Adventure Bible

I was given a copy of this Bible last year in exchange for an honest review.

It’s fantastic.

I love that it goes along with the Bible in a Year Podcast and there are really so many reasons to like this version.

It’s great for a couple. It’s a great gift for a man or woman.

My neighbor and good friend has a copy of Ascension’s Great Adventure Bible and she just converted to Catholicism!

I think the Bible in a Year podcast helped her on her journey home to the Catholic Church.

It’s a sad reality that some Catholics are not as familiar with Sacred Scripture as other Christians. This does not have to be! The Bible in a Year podcast and great publications, like the Great Adventure Bible, makes knowledge of Scripture very accessable and attainable.

3. The gift for a couple that just got their baby or toddler Baptized

I actually gifted a copy of Ascension’s Great Adventure Bible to my sister and her husband when they had their two children Baptized this past year.

I called her up after to explain my reasoning (as you read above) and she told me they actually only had a New Testament, so this gift was something that they did not have . . . and on my end, I felt like it was truly appreciated.

In young families, there may be quite a few Children’s Bibles. .. . they probably don’t need another one of those. Give the adults a gift that will grow with the children and the family!

4. A Gift for your Christian Sister, Mom or Girlfriend

Another Bible I am loving lately is the Blessed is She Catholic Notetaking Bible published by OSV.

This is a beautiful book to give to a woman – no matter what age!

Many parishes have started Bible study programs, and this Bible allows the woman to not confiscate the family Bible each time she leaves to go to a meeting or do her independent studying.

This Bible is a great Eucharistic Adoration companion.

For middle aged women, or older, this idea that it’s okay to color, write and draw in your Bible is a little new. For many of us, writing or coloring in our Bibles was not encouraged. This new found freedom could be quite a blessing to a loved one!

5. A Gift for Your Catholic Christian Dad, Husband and Brother

And, on a side note, here’s a funny story.

One year, for Christmas, I bought my father a Bible.

My dad had modeled the faith for me growing up, but I although I often saw him with Rosaries and always wearing a Miraculous Medal, I wondered if he owned a Bible.

So I was pretty excited about this great gift idea I had for him.

I gave it to him. He looked at it. He told me that it was really nice.

Then, he broke it to me:

It wasn’t a Catholic Bible. It was then that I learned not all Bibles were the same.

I think I might have been 20 years old. This was news to me – King James Bible – not the same as a Catholic Bible.

Still, I think a Bible was a good gift for him.

But think about it – the men in your life . . . when is the last time someone gave them a Bible?

There are options now that may have not been available or necessary years ago.

Large print Bibles for the older crowd that can not read the small print so easily.

Apps like Hallow that have a virtual option may open a door to Christ simply because it will literally be at his fingertips (yes, you can give Hallow as a gift!!!).

Don’t be afraid to give one person a Bible this year!

Share that it is something you appreciate having in your home, or share a personal story about how you came about owning your own Bible.

You can do this!

Do you have a Bible? Was it a gift or something you bought for yourself? Tell us about it in the comments!

And don’t forget to share and Pin this post!

The post 5 People on Your Gift List that need a New Bible appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.