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.

See the BEST CATHOLIC GIFTS TO GIVE IN 2023 HERE!!!!

*** This is list has been updated!!! See The Best Catholic Christmas Gifts to Give in 2022!!!****

One of my favorite posts to write as a blogger is a Christmas gift guide. For the past 4 years, I have written a huge post called “Spiritual Stocking Stuffers” and included a huge giveaway. Although I was not able to get a giveaway organized, I was able to find incredible gifts for you loved ones that will certainly encourage prayer and nurture one’s relationship with Our Lord, Jesus Christ.

This year, I’ve created a phenomenal gift guide that I am so excited to share with you!!!!!

I hope that will shop from this list and allow this small business and the one you purchase from do a happy dance! Shopping small is such a wonderful way to give back this time of year!

I hope you get as excited for these gifts as I am! They are truly awesome!!!

The Best Catholic Gifts to Give this Christmas

THE BEST CATHOLIC GIFTS TO GIVE IN 2023 (UPDATED LIST)

*** This is list has been updated!!! See THE BEST CATHOLIC GIFTS TO GIVE IN 2023**

Blankets from Stump of Jesse

(original blanket from other shop no longer available)

This is my FAVORITE Catholic gift of 2020.

I LOVE this Rosary blanket!

My son loves using it when we pray the Rosary.

I love cuddling up with it at the end of the day.

I am gifting it to my 17 year old niece this Christmas. (shhhhh).

It’s a great gift to give so many people this year! A Grandmother would love it – it’s like giving them a hug and a prayer when you are not there!Let’s get them before they sell out!

Gift idea for 17 year old girl: Pair this blanket with Leah Darrow’s The Other Side of Beauty. Throw in some Tea or Hot Chocolate – and you given her the gift of coziness and relaxation! For a teen who’s living in 2020, trying to decide where to go and what major to pick regarding college, and all the other worries teens go through, this is a wonderful gift that will remind her to pray and that she is not alone!

*** This is list has been updated!!! See The Best Catholic Christmas Gifts to Give in 2022!!!****

This is also a great gift for:

A Catholic family with little children. This blanket was actually made for them! It’s meant to be used as a family prays the Rosary. Children can walk or scoot from bead to bead!

Any woman. This is a great throw blanket. It’s big. It is super soft. And it’s a hug and a prayer! I love cuddling with it on the couch. I also love giving blankets as gifts. My grandparents would get blankets from me for Christmas and I noticed them using it all year long!

A Set of Sacrifice Beads

Clearly I am loving this “millennial pink” as I have heard this color called.

Okay, confession: I just bought this for myself.

I feel like I really need these beads. Often small trifles throughout the day really get to me. I am often petulant. These could be little sacrifices to offer to God and to remind me to simply “give it to God” or “offer it up”.

Sacrifice beads are a great way to teach children to offer things up. Sara from To Jesus Sincerely told me once that her oldest son liked having a set, so I am seriously considering getting a rustic, wooden, more masculine looking set for my son.

Saint Socks

These gifts may not be galmourous, but they are practical!

I have several pairs. My children each have a pair. And this year, my brother (who is my son’s Godfather) is getting the Saint Anthony pair because he’s always looking for something he can’t find.

I love this gift because it’s funny, but will also come in handy!

Best part is they are green – my brother’s favorite color!

These are a great gift for your 1- 12 year old nephew too!

Our nephew, who is also my husband’s Godson, will be getting Saint Patrick Socks, A Be Yourself Journal for Boys, and I’m sure something video game related from us! His middle name is Patrick, so that’s why we picked those socks. I’m sure his mom will love the practical gift

My mom is also getting Saint Patrick socks with her gift! Growing up, I always noticed my mom had holes in her socks. She’s Irish, so I think she’ll love these Saint Patty’s Day Socks!

Comfy clothes that are inspired by faith!

Last year I bought these three sweatshirts to help promote them. This year I can be real with you – I wear these ALL THE TIME!

They are so comfortable! My favorite right now is the hoodie, because I use that front pocket constantly.

I also have my eye on this Carry On Bravely sweatshirt made by Brick House in the City. I love Saint Zelie, and this quote from her is awesome!

A Miraculous Medal Necklace

The graces I have received and experienced from wearing a Miraculous Medal around my neck for the past few years are numerous.

I want others to experience this heavenly love!

I started wearing a Miraculous Medal necklace around the time I started this blog. I wrote this a few years back and the reasons remain:

Five Reasons Why I Wear a Miraculous Medal

Another gift favorite this year is earrings! I love this faith based shop I found on Etsy called Faith and Timreys!

Druzy earrings are so pretty!

Prayer Journals

I love the idea of having children ask for

something they need; something they want; something they will wear; and something to read.

I stand behind Be Yourself: A Journal for Catholic Boys being the book your son, Godson, nephew or younger brother wants to read – he just doesn’t know it’s out there.

It was extremely important to me ask I worked on this to make it appealing to boys between the ages of 9 and 14 years old.

There is not much out there for this group – I’m hoping this book changes that.

Be Yourself: A Journal for Catholic Girls is truly a great gift for a young lady.

Be Yourself: A Journal for Catholic Girls has consistently ranked in the top 100 of Amazon’s following categories during 2020:

Children’s Journal Writing (presently #36)

Children’s Inspiration Books (currently #54)

and Children’s Christian Prayer Books (as of today #56).

Reviews on Amazon indicate that it is loved by girls between the ages of 8 and 13!

As for myself; I bought the Mystical Rose Journal from TiSpark.

The Best Gifts for Catholic Men

My husband helped me with this one!

His first idea: Chimay. Chimay is a beer made by monks who live in Belgium.

A small group of monks came to settle on the wild plateau of Scourmont, near Chimay, in the summer of 1850.

A farm, brewery, and dairy soon sprang up around the monastery.

Now this beer is known worldwide.

My husband Matt loves his WWI Battlebeads from Rugged Rosaries. My son also loves them – so he is getting his own set this year!

Matt also suggested “maybe a St. Michael medal”. My dad has always worn a Miraculous Medal. Both would be great gifts.

I am going to add this book: Consecration to Saint Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father

My husband and I have gone to Saint Joseph asking him for prayers in the past and we truly believe he listens and prays for us.

I read 33 Days to Morning Glory and it was excellent. Right now, this book, Consecration to Saint Joseph is a best seller. I’m looking forward to reading it with him.

Quick summary for men:

• Beer made by monks (or candy made by religious sisters)
• A masculine Rosary (our favorite WWI Battle beads by Rugged Rosaries)
• A Saint Medal Chain
• Spiritual Reading
• Carpenter pencils from CatholicCurio

Another suggestion by my husband Matt is the book Hungry Souls Supernatural Visits, Messages, and Warnings from Purgatory 

Hungry Souls recounts these stories and many others trustworthy, Church-verified accounts of earthly visitations from the dead in Purgatory. Accompanying these accounts are images from the “Museum of Purgatory” in Rome, which contains relics of encounters with the Holy Souls, including numerous evidences of hand prints burned into clothing and books; burn marks that cannot be explained by natural means or duplicated by artificial ones. Riveting!

I wrote a whole other gift guide just from men over at CatholicsOnline.net! Check that one out here: Over 20 Christmas Gift Ideas for Catholic Men

A Catholic Gift Box from Pillar and Pearl

Pillar & Pearl aims to revive the importance of matter in the Catholic Church, and also of celebration. 

*****For Pillar & Pearl USE CODE AMY10 and get 10%off your order!!!*******

When you purchase a gift box from Pillar & Pearl, not only are you providing a faith-filled gift to someone you love, but you are supporting a community of Catholic makers who are living examples of Christian holiness, piety, and love. We are so grateful to our contributors, our customers, and everyone who helps us in our mission to spread the good news of Catholicism worldwide! 

I love this Catholic small business! They simply present these gifts beautifully. Plus, they are promoting many of the small business owners from my favorite community (catholicsonline!!).

I’m so excited to give a box to my sister-in-law this Christmas. She loves the beach so the Annie Box is perfect for her!

*****For Pillar & Pearl USE CODE AMY10 and get 10%off your order!!!*******

Best Gifts for Little Godchildren

My Goddaughter is turning 4 years old and I am excited to get her this set she can bring with her to Mass!

Future Saint Dry-Erase Activity Card Set

I would love if my twins were each given one of these Catholic Keepsake Books! We have one for my oldest son and it’s great!

My Catholic Keepsake Baby and Child Memory Book

I also think this is cute:

My Little Church Magnet Play Set

And a brand new book being released is titled My First Interactive Mass Book

Engage children in the Mass and inspire them to love the Holy Eucharist. Beautiful artwork and hands-on activities like wheels, flaps, and tracing invite children into the beauty of the Mass. Simple explanations and prayers of the Mass provide a deeper understanding for little ones.

This is just a small snapshot of the incredible Catholic gifts that I have come across this year.

I’ve written some more specific gift guides over at CatholicsOnline.net

Some are here:

Catholic Gifts Your Mom, Sister and Wife Actually Want

Epic Catholic Gifts for Teens and Pre-Teens

Catholic Gift Ideas for Children Ages 3 to 8

By the way, my favorite gift – there’s a boy’s one too!!!

The post The Best Catholic Gifts to Give this Christmas appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

Faith can move a mountain?

Then why are all the mountains staying right where they are?  Does no one have faith?

For years, I never really “got” Matthew 17:20.

I tend to take things way to literally.

Thankfully, I didn’t give up on faith since I didn’t see flying mountains on a regular basis . . . or ever.

My faith has been such a comfort to me my whole life.  Even when I felt lonely, I truly felt like I had someone to talk to and that the Lord could hear me.

But . . . I still never saw a mountain move . . . until recently.

The past few years have been exciting.  My life changed drastically when I became a mother.  For the first time in my adult life – I no longer had a “real” job.  Simply becoming a mother is a drastic change – but giving up my financial independence – that was pretty big too.

Resigning from my teaching career wasn’t in the plan.  But, as I am sure I heard before I became a parent, everything changes when you are given a child.

My heart screamed, “God will provide” every time I even thought about going back to work.  And He has.  And as I look back on my life . . . I am amazed at what I can see.

What Mountains are moved by Faith?

1. Financial Barriers

Sometimes in life we want to do something, but we think, “I don’t have the money for that”, or “that cost to much” or  simply, “that is out of my reach financially.”

It is precisely in those times where faith can move a mountain of money your way. More than once I have heard my husband say, “we can’t afford it”.  I have assured him that “God will provide.”  And He has . .

when a career change needed to be made;

when a college education was needed;

when parenthood was being sought through adoption.

God provided.

Although I can think of many times when finances should have logically prevented me from obtaining something – like a college degree or moving out of my parents home – I’d like to share one other example of how having faith can move a mountain of money in your direction.

Before my husband and I were blessed with our adorable son, we felt extremely intimidated by the cost of adoption.  But, we had faith and started our journey to adopt.  We saved money, we reached out to our family and friends (who helped us in ways we still are in complete awe of and feel great gratitude for), and we simply believed that when the time came, we would have the money necessary to pay the adoption agency.

Three months before our son was born, Matt and I went to a wedding.  Without getting into detail, and to keep the story short, Matt was handed an envelope with a check written out to him in it.

At that time, we still needed a substantial amount of money to pay the adoption agency once a baby was placed with us.  We didn’t know our son was coming in 3 months at that point.  But, we put the money in our savings account – and three short months later – we were so relieved and grateful it was there!

We didn’t receive a check for that much at our own wedding!

That was truly a gift from heaven.  But something tells me, you don’t need to take my word for it.  Many times I have heard other people of faith say, “God will provide”.  Those that say it most likely have experienced it.

It’s true, God gives us what we need.

2. Mountains that separate people

Sometimes we need people more than anything.

One of the reasons why I started blogging was to document our family’s second adoption journey.  The second time around, our plan was (and still is) to pursue adoption without the help of an agency. I thought with social media and research, I could find a simple way that couples could navigate the search to find a woman considering adoption and eventually use an attorney to adopt privately.

 The difference in cost between an agency adoption and a private adoption is staggering.  A private adoption, at least in our home state, is about $30,000.00 less than an agency adoption.

Since I had decided to be a stay at home mom, this route seemed to be our only option.

I thought I needed to market us on social media, find some organizations that could help us and tell everyone we know that we were hoping to adopt again.  With some research and time, we would be matched.  After all, I had heard many stories of people connecting with their children’s birthparents long before Facebook and Instagram – those outlets would only increase our chances to connect.

Well, it’s been about 2 years and we still have not matched.

Although I have heard many stories where these media outlets have brought people together and an adoption occurred, God is showing me how he can move bigger mountains than I had in mind.

I can not believe the people we have connected with and the help we are getting.  It is beyond the work of my own hands.

A crisis pregnancy organization – with 5 separate locations within driving distance – that for years did not really take adoption profiles – has ours ready and waiting for a young woman who desires an adoptive family.

Two other pro-life organizations in the area have our profile on hand to give to a woman if she feels called toward an adoption plan.

An adoption education group who visits high schools and gives presentations to colleges (locally and over skype) has just started using our adoption profile in their presentations. Literally thousands of students will see our adoption profile this year.

I started to write and blog, which was never in my plan.  This hobby turned mission is connecting me with more people than I could ever imagine meeting.  Amazing, inspiring and wonderful people who are praying for our family and have become good friends. I truly believe that the friend I have found in Annie, from Catholic Wife, Catholic Life and the guidance and mentor I have found in Jerry Windley-Daoust from Peanut Butter and Grace are in fact, heaven sent.  And when I couldn’t go on a pilgrimage to Italy this summer, so I decided to visit holy places within my area,  God arranged that I meet one of the living daughters of Saint Gianna.  Sometimes I look up and smile – and say, “Lord, I love when you show off!”

3. Mountains that block our vision

My intention when I started blogging was to help couples adopt without feeling financially crushed or intimidated.

What I am coming to realize, is that people – whether on the adoption journey or simply this journey called life – need hope more than information.

The faith I placed in God has allowed me to discover His will for me.  I thought I was going to blog more about adoption than anything.  What I have discovered is that His path for me is much more . . .In the words of Leah Darrow, perhaps, in a way, I can hear the Lord saying . . .

“I made you for more . . .”

I still get to write about adoption – but not so much about the logistics of the journey.  I get to write about something so much more important – faith and hope.

Through this awesome journey to motherhood God has reminded me – He is first.

What mountains has faith moved for you?

Are you on Facebook?  Let’s stay connected more!  Check out Prayer Wine Chocolate on Facebook

The post The Mountains That Faith Can Move appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

1. Smile at people – really smile at them.
2. Compliment someone’s outfit, shirt, or shoes.
3. Tell a person you really like his or her name.
4. Give someone chocolate.
5. Listen to a person without interrupting.
6. Tell a joke – even if it’s corny.
7. When you get up to get something, ask the person closest to you if he or she needs anything.
8. Buy your coffee . .and the next customer’s.
9. When someone says something funny . . . laugh a little louder and longer than you might have yesterday.
10. Hug a family member.
11. Go out of your way to say hi to someone; and smile at them when you say it.
12. Praise someone’s work.
13. Tell someone he or she reminds you of a celebrity.
14. Give someone a sticker.
15. Make a silly face when someone looks at you.
16. Send a text to a sibling or old friend that simply says – “thinking of you and hope you are doing well.”
17. Thank the cashier and use his or her name.
18. Show someone this picture from Life Captured by Jamielynn: 
19. Share Philomena’s joke of the day on Facebook
20. Introduce someone to Brian Regan 
21. Do something goofy.
22. Ask a random question – like “wanna race”?
23. Suggest rock, paper, scissors when a decision needs to be made.
24.  Play rock, paper, scissors.
25. Pretend to fall, then look up to see who was watching and laugh together.

The post 25 Ways to Be A Ray of Sunshine appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

We live in a culture that is so abundant in material possessions  that it’s not unusual to hear a radio advertisement asking the listener, “what do you get for the person who has everything?”. This is a phrase that convinces a customer to buy and helps a business survive – and possibly thrive.

But the reality is, many of us are using credit to do our shopping and our bills do not leave us with much for savings.

Personally, I LOVE Christmas shopping.  I love buying people Christmas gifts.  Somehow, even as a poor college student, I always managed to buy presents for family and close friends.  It is something that has brought me joy as long as I can remember.

This year, the budget is super tight.  This week in particular reminded me of that.  My husband’s car was inspected and needed almost $1,000 of work (and that was just to pass inspection); our oven broke and our heat up stairs stopped working.  What a week – for any time of year.  But it’s Christmas time, so it’s an extra reminder to me that our finances are limited.

However, that doesn’t change how much I really like to Christmas shop.  One thing I look forward to each year is purchasing a gift for our parish giving tree so that a needy child will have one more thing to open Christmas morning.  I reached out to the woman who runs the toy drive and asked “what age group needs gifts?”

I knew the answer before she responded.  Those tween years are tough.  Sure enough, I was informed – both boys and girls ages 10-13.

I have a special place in my heart for the average 13 year old girl.  I remember vividly how challenging that time was – and I often choose that age when I shop for a gift to donate.

But . . . how can I justify buying another thing?

Then a phrase that has been a voice inside my mind once before returned:

God will provide.

And He did.  I found coupon for Staples (an office supply/stationary store) for $10.00 off a purchase of $10.00 or more.  So basically . . . $10.00 appeared.

$10.00 is not going to get the most amazing gift . .. but it enabled me to get some colored pens and two adorable notebooks.  Hopefully that humble gift will bring a young girl a smile and some joy.

Although ten dollars is a small gift from above, I have seen God provide in much bigger ways.

The fact that I went to college, lived there and graduated in four years is a huge testament to the value financial aid, hard work at humbling part-time jobs and divine intervention.

But that phrase:
“God will provide” was particularly loud and persistent about four years ago . . . when, after years of praying, my husband and I finally became parents.

As a teacher in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Secondary Schools, I knew that once we became parents, I would stay home for a year.  That was a benefit I saw many other teachers I worked with enjoy, I had planned to do the same.

That year went by so quickly . . . and my husband really felt that I needed to go back to work so that we could stay afloat financially.

But, all I kept hearing inside my own head was . . . “God will provide”.

Our son was born with some health challenges, and my life as a teacher had me working on lesson plans and grading almost every waking hour that I wasn’t instructing students in the classroom.  I had tried to change that “system” many times; but then I would be teaching content I wasn’t familiar with or something else would be thrown in the mix.

I couldn’t be both a good mom and a good teacher.  I knew this in my heart.

I assured my husband, “God will provide”.

And He did.  From secondary insurance, to part-time work as an SAT reader, to more babysitting jobs I had in high school, God provided.  And He didn’t stop there.  My husband has earned two promotions since we have become parents.

We certainly do not live extravagantly, and there is a list of things that need attention, but we are okay.  Our heat is on, and we are not hungry.

God provides us with what we need.  He loves us.  Sometimes I need the reminder that what those who I love most don’t need an extra gift, but extra love, extra listening, extra attention, extra prayers and extra forgiveness.

If you are worried about balancing your checkbook, remember, God will provide.

Sometimes, He just wants to remind us to close our checkbooks and open our hearts.

May the Lord give you a very, very, Merry Christmas!

The post How God Provides appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

And more good news – you could win some of these gifts!  By commenting under this post which gift you want to purchase you are entered!  Extra entries are possible as well!  Best of luck to you and may you truly have a Blessed Christmas!

Babies and Young Children

Louie the Prayer Lamb

This little guy is adorable and the perfect gift for a child from age 0 – 5; boy or girl.  There are many versions, like Luke the Irish Lamb and Olivia the Owl.  All of them say a prayer when you press their paw.  Such a fun way to teach a child prayers!  These are available through The Catholic Company. They often advertise COUPON CODES, so don’t forget to use one!

RosaryChews

Theresa from Little Praying Hands has a variety to choose from at her online store!  I love how they will be gentle reminders to the adult caring for the little one to say a prayer!  Totally safe and definitely practical – these are perfect for baby’s stocking!  Here is a coupon code just for prayer, wine, chocolate readers! 15% off. Expires 12/16. Code: PWCGG

Young Children

Dolls from Heaven

These 18 inch Saint Dolls come with a book and a hope to inspire children to become saints.  As this time there are two dolls, St. Therese and St. Joan of Arc – sure to become collectables.  Although these dolls come in clothes that demonstrate how God called them, there are other clothes available and since they are 18 inch dolls, more clothes for them would be easy to find.  These dolls are a great alternative – or addition – to an American Girl Doll Collection!  Used the coupon code MerryChristmas and get 20% off!

Jewelry for Girls and Their Dolls!

SaongJai is my absolute favorite Etsy shop for children’s Catholic gifts.  Last year we gave my niece a beautiful Miraculous Medal necklace and one that matched for her doll.  She LOVED it!  Aleesa from SaongJai does take custom orders, but this time of year tends to be busy.  Her shop offers Miraculous Medals for young girls, Rosaries for children – and their dolls!  I definitely recommend getting all little girls on your list something from SaongJai!

Candy Made with Love and Prayer

Trappistine Quality Candy is made by the nuns at Mt St Mary’s Abbey with great joy and love knowing how much people enjoy their candy.  It is truly quality and absolutely delicious!  What a great way to support the cloistered nuns who make it and a way to teach your children about their life based on “prayer and work”.

Teens

Hand Knotted Rosaries (full, pocket, and wrist)

Durable and trendy, these rosaries have a cool feel the traditional rosaries do not.  I love the pocket rosaries and the bracelets, especially for teen boys.  I honestly love the durabilty of all of these items!  For the younger, pre-teen girl, the rainbow pocket rosaries are especially fun!

Scattergories – Catholic Edition

This is such a fun game for the whole family – and yes, there is a Catholic/Bible edition!!!

Anything and Everything from Natural Life!

Prayer boxes, change pouches, hair bandeaus and even car accessories – this shop is absolutely perfect for any young woman – age 12 to 30!!!  The Prayer Boxes and the Happy Box are probably my favorite gifts!  Have a new driver in the family?  Check out this Happy Car Gift set!  Such a unique and fun gift.  All of the products are inspirational, positive and trendy reminders to be kind and loving to one another and one’s self.  Order today and use COUPON CODE FREESHIP16 for free shipping!!!

Jewelry from Faith and Fabric Design

Metal Stamp Cuff Bracelets, Hand Stamped Charm Necklaces, and charm bracelets are trendy and affordable!

Miraculous Medals

Whether your shopping for your teenage son or daughter, these are the perfect stocking stuffer!  If you recall watching the Olympics this year, Usain Bolt – the fastest man in the world – reassured young men that wearing a Miraculous Medal is not just a girl thing.  You can shop at the Central Association of the Miraculous Medal online here: Miraculous Medals

Choker Style Necklaces

I’m told that choker style necklaces are all the rage this season!  Blessed Mess is one of my favorite small business Catholic Companies.  Check out their website for a ton of ideas for the whole family – or contact them with an idea for a custom order!  I LOVE their St. Michael medals for boys and pretty much everything they make!  This shop is a definite win for the teens on your shopping list!

Meditation Palm Cross

This matte silver cross from Christian Bling is perfect for any young man. There is a hole through the cross  to place a piece of paper with thoughts and prayers written down (paper included). This palm cross, inscribed with the words, ‘You are Loved,’ is a helpful instrument for meditating on the love of the Lord. Perfect to keep in a coat or pant pocket! AND, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE with Christian Bling through ctbling.com/HisGoodness, WRITE IN PARTY NUMBER 1825, AND YOU ARE AUTOMATICALLY ENTERED TO WIN FREE HOSTESS SHOPPING! WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN DECEMBER 14TH!!!

Sterling Silver Bangle Bracelet

Search for the bracelet called COMPANIONSHIP on Nicole Gibboni’s Christian Bling website.  This sterling silver bangle style bracelet is very popular right now – and this one can be personalized in many ways, and it can be engraved.

Candy Made with Love and Prayer

Trust me.  I taught high school students- the big kids love candy just as much as the younger ones! Trappistine Quality Candy is made by the nuns at Mt St Mary’s Abbey with great joy and love knowing how much people enjoy their candy.  It is truly quality and absolutely delicious!  What a great way to support the cloistered nuns who make it and a way to remind your teens about their life based on “prayer and work”.

Would you LOVE to win a bag full of these awesome gifts!???

*Not all gifts suggested will be given away – however, the giveaway does have a good number of these gifts (about 10)!!!!

Enter by leaving a comment – and if you haven’t already, subscribe to prayerwinechocolate.com!  You can enter more ways as well – check out the Rafflecopter way below!

Need more ideas?  Check out: Spiritual Stocking Stuffers for Men and Spiritual Stocking Stuffers for Women

you could win some of these gifts! By commenting under this post which gift you want to purchase you are entered!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post Spiritual Stocking Stuffers for Children and Teens appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

Don’t get me wrong, I am super excited to Christmas shop, and fully embrace the season of secular madness.  I’m a big kid and I love it.

But this year, I am seeing a lot of Catholic bloggers talking about Advent – and that has been a wake up call for me.  I need to think about what Advent is, and why Christians established it as a season.

Lucky for me, I am the parent to incredible four year old, and I am eager to go on this journey with him.  If you are not a parent, or your children has grown, perhaps find a niece, nephew or grandchild to embrace this season.  Their innocence is inspiring and really brings the joy and excitement of the season to life.

And people were bringing children to him that he might touch them, but the disciples rebuked them.  When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.  Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” Mark 10:13-16

I’m going to need some help on this journey, so here are a few items I may purchase to help me.  If you purchase these, I make a small percentage – so thank you very much!

The Shepherd on the Search- Advent Activity Set

I LOVE this alternative to the “Elf on the Shelf”.  DaySpring has created this book set so that during the Advent season, families can read the story of the shepherd’s timeless journey in a beautifully illustrated interactive children’s book, and let the fun begin every day as they hide the shepherd and children find him in a new place along the search!

Click here to purchase: The Shepherd on the Search Advent Set

A Christian Themed Advent Calendar

Click here to purchase: Nativity Advent Calendar

Fisher Price Little People Nativity Set

This toy Nativity Set was such a great investment for our family. Above is a picture of my son two years ago . . . he made the angel kiss the baby Jesus! Such a great way to talk and teach about what Christmas is and why we celebrate it.  I love that these Little People are durable enough to be played with by very young children, but still enjoyed by the older ones!  We have a beautiful “adult” Nativity Set, but the past couple years we have simply put out this one.  When members of the scene fall, nothing breaks.  That is truly an added bonus! Click here to purchase: Little People Nativity Set

The Legend of the Poinsettia

We see these plants almost as much as we see Christmas trees this time of year.  What a wonderful way to talk about the season with your child by reading this book together. In Mexico, the poinsettia is called flor de la Nochebuenao  which means flower of the Holy Night. This Mexican legend tells how the poinsettia came to be, through a little girl’s unselfish gift to the Christ Child.  I have seen many moms showing excitement for a new tradition of wrapping 24 books before Christmas and reading one a night.  This would be an excellent story to include in that tradition! Click here to purchase: The Legend Of the Poinsettia Book

Advent with Saint Teresa of Calcutta: Daily Meditations

Although I am going to love embracing the season with my son, I will need some time alone with the Lord . . . and my coffee.  These daily meditations are just the right size for me.  I can read it with my coffee, or take it with me to adoration (and if I can only stay for 10 or 15 minutes, this is the perfect way to guide that time in prayer).  The Scripture quotes will also inspire me to pull out my prayer journal and enjoy my prayer time and rare times of quiet reflection. Click here to purchase: Daily Meditations with Saint Teresa of Calcutta

Tis the Season Devotional Kit

Reserving time to prayer journal has been quite tough for me.  I really want to do it and I know it makes my soul happy!  This devotional kit is just what I need to motivate and jumpstart my personal prayer time.  DaySpring has many illustrated faith kits,  and this one is brand new! Click here to purchase: Tis the Season Devotional Kit

Chocolate Santa Pops

Saint Nicholas Day is December 6th and this is the perfect sweet to put inside the shoes that are left out for the Jolly Saint’s visit  Plus, purchasing this product helps support The Nuns at Mount St. Mary’s.  They are a cloistered order and making their candies is how they sustain their community.  To support the Sisters, and to enjoy some incredible chocolate, click here to purchase! Trappistine Quality Candy

How are you getting ready? I’d love to hear!

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Last week I told my husband I was skipping dinner to take a nap.. . and I actually did just that.

I think about coffee all.the.time.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy.

But my mantra lately has been more, “prayer, coffee, sleep” than “prayer, wine, chocolate”!

My prayer life reflects the thoughts that follow.  Lately my conversations with God have been on the lines of:

“Dear God, Please bless _____________”;

the Hail Mary’s I say at night that help me turn my mind off and fall asleep and the sporadic thank you God when I look at my son and think of my husband.

But besides going to Mass on Sunday and the Rosary I was late to the other night, it ends there.

Not exactly inspirational.

I’m not sure why I’m writing this, except for the fact I have a strong feeling I am not alone. Isn’t it a wonderful feeling when you can say inside, “Oh good, I’m not the only one” ?

I also think some of you reading this will be able to tell me, don’t worry – you won’t always be thinking about when you could fit in a nap!

Well . . . maybe not. I have always loved naps.

Is your prayer life tired?  Is your life in general exhausting?

How can we fix it?

Maybe we can’t  . . . but Jesus can.

Isn’t faith a wonderful gift?

To know that everything doesn’t have to be our job . . . what a relief.

God will carry us, care for us, give us strength, hope, endurance and re-light our fire.

And trust me, sometimes it is just best to go take that nap.  My husband will vouch for that.

For everything there is a season … and each season has it’s own beauty.

No matter how tired I am, I still dream of the day God brings another baby in our family.  In the mean time, my heart is so grateful for the family I have and the work I feel the Lord has given me.  I hear a small voice in my head that says, “this first”.

I also thank God that I got to sleep through the whole night last night.

When the time comes that I have to get up every 3 to 4 hours to feed a hungry baby, I know the adrenaline rush of immense love will get me through it.  I think it got me through 3 years of our son’s life!

Are you as tired as I am?

What keeps you going?  What prayers do you pray . . . and when?

How do you like your coffee?

ps.  Exciting news!  The Sisters of Mt. Saint Mary are giving me a chance to be an affiliate for them in order to boost their candy sales!  Please consider purchasing their AMAZING chocolate through this link: Trappistine Candy and Chocolate

If enough customers make a purchase through that link, I will make a small percentage!  This will allow me to continue doing the work I love – writing here!  Thank you in advance for your support.  It is delicious candy – enjoy!

Much love and prayers,

Amy

The post Prayer, Coffee, Sleep. appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

It is our belief that these centers provide amazing services.  It is also our belief that many people living near them do not realize how much help and support is provided by them.

We hope that by publishing our posts about these amazing places on the same day, and sharing this information on social media, that more people will come to know how much love, help and support exists for women facing an unplanned pregnancy.

A Baby’s Breath

Catherine Mote is the Director of A Baby’s Breath in Warminster, PA.  There are actually five A Baby’s Breath centers in the suburbs of Philadelphia.  Since the Warminster location is the one closest to my home, I asked Cathy Mote is I could interview her about the Warminster center.  She, thankfully, agreed

Here is the interview conducted by me (Amy Brooks).  The answers of each question were provided by Catherine Mote.

Who is the founder of A Baby’s Breath and what was her vision?

Karen Patota is the founder and President of A Baby’s Breath.  Karen’s vision is described best by the mission of her organization: “to help a mother to see her child take his/her first breath”.

What do you want the local community to know about your center?

First and foremost that we are here!  I also want the community to know about our free services.  We provide free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, free material assistance and free parenting classes.  We can help a woman find whatever she needs during her pregnancy.  If we don’t have it in the center, we can direct her to where she can get it.  We can help her until she is self-sufficient.  With most women that happens by the time her child is three years of age.

What is your center’s greatest strength?

Everyone who helps out is a volunteer.  Our advocates are reliable, dedicated and genuinely amazing, loving people.

If a woman is considering abortion, what would you hope someone would tell her about your center?

That there is a lot of love here.  When she walks into this center she is not going to be judged and she will be embraced.  It is a safe place.  We want her to have a positive outlook on the future and reassure her that her present circumstances are not going to ruin her life. A Baby’s Breath will discuss with her what concerns she has.  If she feels like she is in a crisis situation, A Baby’s Breath will help her to set goals and empower her to rise above it.  Whatever is needed, emotional or material support, will be given to any woman who enters.

Is your center in need of any volunteers or supplies?

Always!  We could always use donations of diapers, wipes, baby wash, shampoo, formula, and gift cards to Walmart or Giant.  We also accept clothing donations for babies and children – up to size 4T.

For women that already have children, what kind of support may she receive from your center?

We can help see if they qualify for subsidized child care; help them look for a job; provide them with clothes and they are also welcome to participate in the free parenting classes.

What other information about your center would you like to share?

We can help women find free pre-natal care (with or without insurance).

We can help women find housing if they need it.

(Check out and like A Baby’s Breath Housing on Facebook!)

Our workers truly develop a caring relationship with our clients.  They offer all kinds of help and relief. Incredible bonds develop and grow between those who work here and clients who seek help here.

A Baby’s Breath Warminster is located at:

600 Louis Drive

Warminster, PA 18974

You can call A Baby’s Breath at 267-275-4097

A Baby’s Breath has four other centers in PA:

Jeffersonville, Collegeville, Wayne and Phoenixville

All of these centers would welcome you as a client or as a volunteer!  If you want to learn more about the organization, check out their website at Ababysbreath.org

A Baby’s Breath Advocates are also happy to discuss adoption as an option as well.  It is A Baby’s Breath’s desire to provide each woman with the information she seeks and to assure her that what she desires for her baby’s life can be obtained.

Will you help spread the message that women facing unplanned pregnancies can get help and support at A Baby’s Breath?  Please share this article with friends and family!

Read more about one young woman’s experience with A Baby’s Breath: Rachel’s Abortion Call and Message

Want to see the other bloggers’ posts? Check out:

FROM LONDON: The Pearl of Great Price: The Good Counsel Network. Saving London’s Babies since 1997

FROM NOVA SCOTIA: Fishbowl Fortune: Raising Awareness of Local Pregnancy Counselling

FROM Cincinnati, Ohio: Fallow Fields

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