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.

Veronica is one of my favorite names. When I was preparing for Confirmation, it was a name I had in mind, but that’s a story for another day.

When I was in college, my mother had a baby girl! She sat in the hospital holding this beautiful child the day they were supposed to come home and she did not yet have a name. My mother told my siblings and I that her and my dad were thinking of naming her Bernadette or Veronica (I also love and loved the name Bernadette – that was the other name I had hoped would be my Confirmation name a decade earlier!!).

I shouted Veronica!!!! And it seemed to be an overall consent.

Veronica is her name. I am not only her sister, but I am also her Godmother!

In a few weeks, my niece will be getting Confirmed. Her Saint she chose is – you guessed it – Saint Veronica.

So naturally, I’m on the search for Saint Veronica gifts. Here is what I have found and am loving!

But first, here are some facts about Saint Veronica:

Her feast Day July 12th and she is the patron saint of photographers.

Toys and baby friendly gifts for little Veronica’s Baptism or Birthday!

Saint Veronica Prayer Doll

Saint Veronica is the patron saint of photographers, images, laundry workers. Sketch & Sentiment’s plush prayer dolls feature St. Veronica on the front, with a prayer for her aid on the back.

Prayer dolls make lovely Easter basket and Christmas stocking stuffers, sacramental gifts, or just a reminder to pray. 

Saint Veronica Wooden Saint Peg

This peg doll is handmade by Sara Davila, owner of The Cheerful Gifter

It is a 3.5″ wooden peg doll hand painted and varnished using only non toxic materials in the image of St. Veronica.

Saint Veronica Wall Rosary

Hand-crafted by Allison owner of Small Things Great Love this VERONICA Wall Rosary is strung with soft peach, amethyst, soft pink, seafoam, soft white, and natural wood beads at the “Our Father.” It is finished with a beautifully handcrafted, stained crucifix and centerpiece.

Saint Veronica Confirmation Gifts

Saint Veronica Photographer Necklace

Made by Sagely Sparrow, the necklace is available in lengths of 18in and 24in and comes with a St. Veronica medal, a silver colored camera charm, and a clear faceted glass bead.

It is so pretty, so fun and so affordable!!! It is also available on Etsy!

Silver Bangle Bracelet with Saint Veronica Charm

Catholic Faith Store has a variety of Saint Veronica gifts, but currently, this one is my favorite!

St. Veronica charm in an oval shape and border text that reads Saint Veronica Pray For Us. Paired with a cable bangle bracelet. The bracelet is designed with a double tier cable twist wire with oval eye hook closure and can be silver or gold in color.

To see the other Saint Veronica gifts in this shop, check out this link to Catholic Faith Store!

If you are shopping for a Confirmation gift, don’t forget to include The Be Yourself Journal!!!

Saint Veronica Gifts for all ages and occasions!

Veronica’s Veil Vintage Catholic Rosary

This Holy Face of Jesus rosary celebrates the image of Christ on Saint Veronica’s Veil with stunning medals and beautiful dark grey larkivite with black flecking, combined with dark red garnet pater beads. This is designed to be loved by either a man or woman. This rosary is sturdy has a nice heavy weight in the hand and is 17 inches long. 

I love this sketch by Kate Capato (Visual Grace) titled Face of Christ.

Artwork by Kate Capato, Visual Grace

Originally done on unprimed canvas as a reflection of the cloth used to wipe the face of Christ on the way to Calvary. Notice His look as He loves you dearly, beckoning you in to His heart. 

This cloth of Saint Veronica sticker is one of my favorites.

Original artwork of Baritus Catholic, this 3″ vinyl waterproof sticker of the the Holy Face of Jesus on the veil of Veronica – Vera Icon.

Saint Veronica Art Prints

This style of art seems to be popular and modern

Saint Veronica Print by Light Bearer Designs

Saint Veronica Prayer Card by Creator Blessed

A totally different style, but this digital download of Saint Veronica struck me and I had to share it with you!

Looking for other Saint Gifts? I have done several other posts similar to this one!

Gifts inspired by Saint Francis

Our Lady of Guadalupe Gift Guide

Love Catholic Gift ideas – go here and sign up for a free catalog while you are there!

Would you like to read more about Saint Veronica? Check out this article from Catholic Women in Business: Let us Not Grow Tired: A Lesson in Veronica’s Bold Compassion

The post Gifts Inspired by Saint Veronica 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 for an honest review. All opinions and recommendations are 100% mine!

Dynamic Duos: These Catholic Gifts Go Great Together!

Sometimes we want to give an extra special gift. We want to make sure we hit a couple aspects gifts can be – something they want, something they need, something they’ll read . . .

This gift guide is for those of you looking to give a gift that will make the receiver extra joyful and grateful! All the while, you’re reminding a loved one Who this holiday is all about!

Praise Jesus! Let’s give gifts that bring hearts closer to Him this year!

The Perfect Catholic Gift Packages for Babies and Kids

For children under the age of 3 (toddlers, newborns and babies):

The Where is Jesus Quiet Book and a simple crucifix from Rough 2 Rustic

The Where is Jesus Quiet Book is such an incredible gift to give this year! It’s brand new and it is beautiful! I bought it and my 6 year old daughter keeps asking if she can play with it!

My nephew was Baptized about a month ago, and I gave him a little something that day, but for Christmas, I’m excited to give him this book!

The Where is Jesus Quiet Book teaches our Catholic faith in a fun way and it’s cloth – so your toddler or baby won’t destroy it by ripping it or even chewing on it. For those little ones, I always think cute and durable!

A crucifix is a powerful sacramental. It’s a perfect gift that can be hung on a wall in the child’s bedroom and stay there for years to come. I recommend Rough 2 Rustic because of it’s modern style. I think this crucifix might be embraces by those who may not be on fire for the faith as much as you, the gift giver, is on fire for the faith. It’s a gentle evangelizer.

This duo is great because the child has something to play with now, and a special gift that can be relevant and used for years.

For little girls ages 3 to 8:

Two brand new gifts made their debut this year that go perfect together!

The Shining Light Rag Doll of Our Lady of Champion and the book Go and Fear Nothing: The Story of Our Lady of Champion

It’s true, you learn something new everyday! I did not no anything about Our Lady of Champion before I read this book! What an incredible story about an approved Marian apparition that happened here in the United States! And this book is getting great reviews, it’s currently a #1 New Release on Amazon.

The Our Lady of Champion Rag Doll is gorgeous. I was sent several samples of the Mary Rag Dolls from Shining Light Dolls and I let my daughter pick one – she chose Our Lady of Champion.

If you purchase the doll from Shining Light Dolls, don’t forget to use the coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE

These gifts compliment each other perfectly and make the other all the more special. And, added bonus, they are both new so chances are the receiver does not have either of these things yet!

The Perfect Catholic Gifts for Older Kids and Pre-Teens

By the time children get a little older, you’ll often hear Moms plead – please don’t buy us any more toys!

At the same time, we know it won’t be long for these children to be “to cool for toys”; so we find ourselves in a little predicament.

Here’s my solution – a practical gift and a book!

I was recently sent some Prayer Pillowcases that my children chose from their website.

This is a neat idea – have the kids pick out which pillowcase they’d like to have! My 11-year-old chose a Padre Pio Prayer Pillowcase. You can pair this gift with a Be Yourself Journal and/or some books from Voyage Comics!

For the girls, I love the Prayer Pillowcase with inspirational quotes and a Be Yourself Journal!

I love this quote pillow from Prayer Pillowcases – sometimes, when I sign a book, I include this very quote!

By the way, I think you could make an incredible journaling kit for a little girl with the Be Yourself Journal, Catholic stickers and fun pens and markers (these scented glitter gel pens look so fun)!

Another cute Catholic sticker grab bag from Sweet Little Ones Shop!

The Perfect Catholic Gift Combinations for Women in 2023

Last year I got a beautiful Catholic Scarf from Studio Senn. This year I was joyfully anticipating the release of Theology of Style: Expressing the Unique and Unrepeatable You

I mention this new book in my latest post and 2023 Christmas Gift Guide: The Best Catholic Gifts to Give in 2023! Definitely check out this post and shop great Catholic gifts from it!

This next idea is for men and women . . .

Perfect Catholic Gift Combinations for Men and Women

Do you know someone who prefers tea over coffee? Do you have a coffee lover on your gift list?

This is a great opportunity to give a gift that the person will love and enjoy – plus you can evangelize a little

Give a pretty Catholic mug (I just asked for this one from the Little Rose Shop and I adore this one from His Girl Sunday’s Liturgy Market).

If the person enjoys coffee over tea – go to Catholic Coffee and get an inspiring brew (k-cups available, wooohooo!) If you shop, use the coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE to get 15% off!

Mug ideas for men:

Awake O Sleeper Mug from Someday Saints

Saint Nick Mug

Saint Joseph Campfire style mug

If you have a tea-lover, try Sacred Heart Tea.

This gorgeous mug is close to selling out: the Mary Campfire Mug from With a Joyful Heart!

Do you want to see more “perfect pairings” of Catholic gifts? If yes, download this incredible Catholic Gift Catalog!!!

Want a quick link to a few dynamic Catholic shops? If yes, click here!

The post Dynamic Duos: These Catholic Gifts Go Great Together! 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.

Let’s talk Advent. When does it start? This year, Advent begins Sunday, December 3rd.

THIS WEEK ONLY!!! GET THE CATHOLIC MOM ADVENT BUNDLE!!!

What should we be thinking about during Advent?

According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops website:

The Advent season is a time of preparation that directs our hearts and minds to Christ’s second coming at the end of time and to the anniversary of Our Lord’s birth on Christmas. From the earliest days of the Church, people have been fascinated by Jesus’ promise to come back. But the scripture readings during Advent tell us not to waste our time with predictions. Advent is not about speculation. Our Advent readings call us to be alert and ready, not weighted down and distracted by the cares of this world (Lk 21:34-36). Like Lent, the liturgical color for Advent is purple since both are seasons that prepare us for great feast days. Advent also includes an element of penance in the sense of preparing, quieting, and disciplining our hearts for the full joy of Christmas.

Advent 2023: What to do and how to feel at peace with it all!

If we want to experience the full joy of Christmas, we must honor Advent.

The reality of life in this busy culture, and possibly a busy season of life, can make that feel like quite the impossible task.

So, I gave this some thought.

How can I personally embrace Advent in the reality of my day to day life (which is chaotic, messy, disorganized and only gets more busy during December).

How to NOT be stressed out during Advent

This is what I came up with: 3 questions to ask myself – and questions you can ask yourself.

These questions should lower your anxiety and help us both realize that we can embrace Advent and still live in the modern world of 2023.

The three questions to ask yourself are:

1. What am I already doing in my faith life?
2. What do I know I am going to get caught up in this Advent?
3. How can I approach decorating with an Advent mindset?

What am I already doing in regards to my faith life?

Think about the prayer life you already have. What do you do each week and each day in regards to prayer, Adoration, participating in the Sacraments, spiritual reading, works of mercy, etc. Could you continue to do those things but just focus them on Advent or Saints who have feast days in December?

I am already looking at my phone a lot (sometimes for prayer, often not so much).

I recently started using the Hallow App. The Hallow App will probably have something to listen to for Advent. I’ll make an effort to listen and pray with that App during Advent.

THIS WEEK ONLY!!! GET THE CATHOLIC MOM ADVENT BUNDLE!!!

Our family prays together before dinner.

If I’m being completely honest here, I can tell you I am much more consistent before dinner with praying than I am before bedtime. So my personal strength to daily prayer comes before our last meal of the day.

One action my husband and I can take is to take the opportunity of all of sitting around the dinner table and after dinner read a page from the new Jesse Tree Book written by Colleen Pressprich.

Another thing my kids would probably love is lighting the candles of an Advent Wreath. Our family is now ready to have a grown up wreath – I think (pray for us)! I do believe that my 11 year old would feel great being allowed to light the candle. I feel that giving our children opportunities to make the faith their own is very important. Small steps are still steps!

Sometimes I can be good with waking up early to do some kind of spiritual reading, prayer or journaling. If this is you, check out my blog post about Advent Prayer Journal Prompts!

Do you read to your children? Do you read for pleasure? If yes, prepare a stack of books about Advent or the Saints we celebrate during Advent! In our house, we still consistently read to our children.

My 6 year old daughter told me her FAVORITE Saint book is How the Saints Saved Christmas! This book is perfect for Advent! This same 6 year old daughter smuggled the brand new book I only read once to her so far in the car – this book, called Twas the Day Before Christmas in Bethlehem Town is a great addition to your families’ library (and your niece’s, Godson’s, Grandson’s too)!

Need an adult book suggestion? Try this one about Our Lady of Guadalupe!

What do I know I am going to get caught up in during Advent?

Christmas Shopping and All the Gatherings

For me, I know I will not be done my Christmas shopping before Advent. Bravo to those of you that will be, but I know me, and getting my Christmas shopping don early is not something I do.

Since I know I will be Christmas shopping, I can do several things while I shop. One, I can say a little prayer each time I buy a gift for the person who will be receiving that gift.

I can also make a true effort to give gifts that will inspire faith, prayer and a love for Our Lord. If you know me, you know this is already something I love to do!

Over at Catholics Online, we created an exclusive Catholic Christmas Gift Catalog! I highly recommend you download yours today!

Holiday get togethers! Chances are, there will be a few! I hear more and more of

“cookie baking gatherings”;

“cookie exchanges”;

“ornament exchanges”;

“holiday work parties”;

“ugly Christmas sweater parties” (I need an invite, I want a reason to buy this Advent sweater!!)

“secret Santa gift exchange” – what else? What else am I missing?

Birthday parties that are in December; weddings, showers, etc . . .

And of course there will be Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!

We can approach shopping with a peaceful mindset by starting a little early, making a list and sticking to it, and bringing the idea that gifts can evangelize and nourish souls. We can also limit the number of events we say yes to, and bring our faith with us wherever we go!

Think faith-based hostess gifts

If I am heading to a holiday get together, I can bring the hostess a gift with a holy twist!

Maybe it will be something fairly light hearted in nature, like a bottle of wine and a Prayer Wine Chocolate Tumbler. Other ideas can be candy made by Trappistine nuns or a candle made by a Catholic company.

Are you a quilter? Check this out from Faith and Fabric!

Catholic cookies!

If it is a cookie exchange or cookie baking get together, Shining Light Dolls now has cookie cutters!

(use coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE to save!)

How do you approach decorating in December?

Some people already have their Christmas tree and outside lights up! Could you bring Advent into the decoration mix a little more this year?

Do you have an Advent wreath? Make sure you display it! If not, I found this one on Etsy!

If you have little ones and don’t feel comfortable with an open flame, Shining Light Dolls has a beautiful wooden Advent wreath meant for little hands!

The best idea to consider with this question is “less is more”. During Advent, we watch the world rush right into Christmas. The Christmas Season liturgically is after Advent. Ask yourself to hold off on some of the lights and Christmas decor for as long as you can . . . remember, to experience the full joy of Christmas, we must honor Advent.

THIS WEEK ONLY!!! GET THE CATHOLIC MOM ADVENT BUNDLE!!!

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The post Advent 2023: What to do and how to feel at peace with it all! 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.

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.

Two Speakers in the Philadelphia Archdiocese are not just bringing refreshing, incredible talks to events, but also holy experiences.

You can find speakers all over the globe by going to Catholicinfluencers.com!

Kate Capato: Sacred Presentations that bring Truth Through Beauty

Book a presentation with Kate Capato, owner of Visual Grace, here!

Taking to heart the concept of leading with beauty, Kate Capato brings a unique event with original paintings and collaborates with husband with live music to share the truths of our faith. It is powerful to see the Holy Spirit working through beauty! 

These are not your typical talks!

Kate’s talks include an immersive experience, an in depth explanation of the language of beauty, instruction about how God communicates with us and a total new way to pray using Visio Divna (a way of listening to God through art).

*** Book an event with Kate Capato here****

Each event is rooted in Church teaching and includes:

• time of Eucharistic focused prayer
• Live music
• original Sacred Art

Amy Brooks: Prayer Journaling Workshops, Confirmation Retreats and the Prayer Wine Chocolate Experience

“Amy’s contributions to the planning and execution of our Confirmation Candidate Retreat resulted in a spiritually enriching and very enjoyable Retreat Day for our seventh through ninth grade youth. Amy is gifted with creative genius and an energetic, joyful personality, which is captivating to both youth and adults.
I strongly recommend Amy as I am certain she will plan an excellent, unforgettable Retreat experience for you!“

–Sr. Kathleen Fitzpatrick, IHM 

The Power of Prayer and Prayer Journaling: a talk and experience for Catholic Adults

When I hit rock bottom, prayer journaling saved me.

Well, it was one of the things that saved me. I felt so alone. So sad. I wondered if God heard me. Reaching out to Him on paper made His love, His “realness” more real to me.

When there is no one around – Our Lord is still there. Writing Jesus letters in a notebook made my relationship more tangible.

I share the power of prayer with others now. Years later I witnessed an absolute miracle. God showed me that He does indeed hear our prayers.

Starting with this Spiritual Adoption Miracle, I assure others that God does hear what we say to Him in the silence of our hearts, in our persistent prayers and in our daily lives.

When I was in my mid-twenties, I often felt like I had nothing to look forward too

Then, a few friends and I would get together on Thursday nights – and during our small gathering, we would pray a Rosary.

I now had something to look forward to. I not only had friends coming over to give my loneliness a retrieve, but our prayer intentions and group Rosary gave me HOPE!

Hope is an incredible gift. Praying with others is so powerful. It’s also incredibly comforting.

These gatherings were the origin of Prayer Wine Chocolate. I share that with anyone and everyone who will listen.

After I share stories of hope and faith – and even some laughs, I help people start their own prayer journals.

Book a call with me here!

We can discuss a Live event, a virtual one or I can help you plan your own event!

Confirmation Retreats with Amy Brooks

Whether you need a DIY Guide or your are looking for a Keynote Speaker, I can help!

Today, more than ever, our children are searching for their identity.

Each of us are made in the image of God. God made every person unique and unrepeatable.

His plans for every single soul are incredible, meaningful and spectacular.

My books, Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Girls and Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Boys are made for the age where your children are growing into adulthood. It’s a confusing time – it has always been a confusing stage of life. Our children are witnessing more confusion and mixed messages than we could have imagined.

Our Lord has a clear message to them and I am here simply to be His mic – maybe His bullhorn.

I would love to visit your parish and speak to both the students and their parents!

If you would like help planning a retreat – take a look at my digital guides:

From God’s Plan to Your Plan: a Bible Study for Boys

and the Be Yourself: Journal Club Guide

These guides give you the freedom and flexibility to plan more than one event – or the inspiration to choose activities and reflections for a one day retreat.

Where can I find more Catholic Speakers?

There are incredible Catholics sharing inspirational stories all over the U.S. and beyond.

Find Catholic Speakers and more over at catholicinfluencers.com

The post Catholic Speakers Bring Experiences as well as Inspiration to Your Parish 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.

This essay was published in the 1932-33 Saint Joseph’s Preparatory School’s Chronicle Magazine. William Gould (my paternal Grandfather) was an editor and wrote this essay.

The Irony of the Cross

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross presents in its background, one of those peculiar ironies which God, in His Providence, has permitted in order to confound that detestable vice of pride.

The events which led to the finding of the Cross are, for the most part, commonplace enough, but the climax has resulted in one of the most pronounced rejections of selfish ambition that the world ever witnessed.

Helena, a poor innkeeper’s daughter marries an officer of Rome

This climax had its root in the obscure hills of Bithynia, where Constantius Chlorus, an officer of Imperial Rome, first beheld Helena, the poor innkeeper’s daughter. The modest and fair Helena won the affection of the Stoic, yet proud general and he made her his wife. The years which immediately followed were happy ones for the noble Roman and his peasant wife. Then came the birth of their son, Constantine, who was fated to turn the bloody tide of Roman persecution which was threatening the dissolution of an already degenerated state. Both mother and father watched with equal pride the maturing years of their only son.

Proud Ambition Stifles Love

We next behold this happy trio under circumstances that are less consoling. The Empire had been divided. The emperor, Maximian had offered that part of the Empire, which comprised of Britain, Spain and Gaul to Constantius Chlorus, but with characteristic enterprise he had made the marriage of Theodora, his daughter, to Chlorus a necessary condition for acquiring this high position. Proud ambition stifled Chlorus’ love for his wife and the governor divorced her, much to the grief of his son, who could not bear the slight cast upon the mother, whom he passionately loved. Helena again receded into the shadows, shadows deeper than those cast by her native Bithynian hills.

Constantine: a devoted son and military hero

But her devoted son, Constantine, was meanwhile gaining great military fame and was rapidly rising to the head of the Empire.

Then one day, in the midst of a fierce battle, a luminous sign, a cross flashed across the heavens before the dazed vision of the Emperor Constantine and the instant lightning etched above the apparition these mystic words:

“In Hoc Signo Vinces”

The Eagle had won its last battle and the Cross had won its first. The mighty emperor confided his secret vision to his peasant mother and sowed the first seed of a sanctity that was to live forever. The pagan Helena who had held herself in obscurity, emerged into the new-born Empire, a Christian.

Then she, too, was blessed in a dream with the happy vision of the cross and was commissioned to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land where where she should find the true Cross.

Saint Helena art by Heather Sleightholm, this image can be purchased in her Etsy shop: Sleightholmfolk

Despite her years she promptly set out on her tedious journey and realized the fulfillment of her vision. After a long sojourn in and about the Holy Land she returned home and died in her son’s arms. She was buried with pompous ceremony and laid in state among the greatest figures of that world ruling Empire.

But herein lies the contrast. Helena, the poor peasant girl who was brought out of obscurity into high station as the wife of one of the nobles of the Empire, is rejected and cast into obscurity again by the pride of her husband.

But through the respect and devotion of her son she is again raised to the pinnacle of fame in Empire and finally rests in the Vatican as one of the greatest saints of the early Church.

But the bones of Constantius Chlorus are last remembered as resting at York in a small Church, of the pre-Reformation period, bearing the name of his saintly spouse. There he rested obliterated by the deserved praises of his wife and a fitting example of humiliated pride.

Did Saint Helena “stalk” my grandfather?

Sometimes, the Saints find us and intercede for us. I’ve experienced this myself with Our Lady of Guadalupe (read about that here) and have heard quite a few other people share similar stories where people have felt “stalked” by a Saint.

Since I have the privilege of seeing this essay written by a teenager in the early 20th century and know how his life followed until his death in 1992 – it’s remarkable to see how this Saint would have taken a special interest in my Grandpop.

Saint Helena is the patron of saint of difficult marriages and divorced people.

In a time when divorce was rare, my Grandfather was familiar with it in a way most of his peers were not. His father and mother divorced when he was 10 years old. I was told that he could have attended Saint Joseph’s University – he was offered a full scholarship. But, since he lived with his mother he was considered the man of the house and had to choose employment over education. The need for financial security was exasperated since these years were during the Great Depression.

Ironically, I think years later his parents ended up getting back together.

Perhaps knowing that Saint Helena was the patron of divorced people caught his interest since his own parents, who he loved very much, were divorced.

However, my grandfather wrote this essay about eight years before he met his wife, Helen Rose.

The year this essay was written, my Grandmother, Helen, was an eighth grade student in Saint Helena’s School in Philadelphia.

William and Helen were married in September of 1942, right before my grandfather was deployed to serve in Germany in what is known in history as World War II.

Much like her son Constantine, my grandfather saw the terror of war up close. I remember him telling me: “war is hell”.

Years later some of his grandchildren, myself being one, would also attend Saint Helena’s School.

I had a special fondness for my Grandpop Gould. Unfortunately he passed away when I was a sophomore in high school. He was the first grandparent I lost.

I can’t help but smile when I think – maybe my inclination to reflect upon our faith through writing is something that comes in part, from him.

Do you like Prayer Wine and Chocolate? Support this blog and shop!

The post The Irony of the Cross: an Essay about Saint Helena written in 1933 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.

Divine Delights: Unveiling the Best Catholic Etsy Shops

I love that I can shop from talented Catholics all over the world from the comfort of my own home.

I am often awed by what these men and women are creating!

Here are some of my absolute FAVORITE Catholic Etsy shops!!!

Catholic Etsy shops for stickers and fun gifts:

Just Love Prints

Looking for Catholic Stickers, grab a bundle from this fun shop! This is the place to grab Catholic temporary tattoos and stationary gifts for teachers and employees too!

Sweet Little Ones

Take your time and peruse the apparel, stickers, magnets and more!

Stump of Jesse

I LOVE this shop and have gotten t-shirts for my friend and her daughter there, stickers and washi tape for me and – trust me, go browse – it’s a fun one!

Catholic Etsy shops for Home Decor and More

Small Things Great Love

This shop makes me want to hang a Wall Rosary in my home. The styles are modern and beautiful! I also love the Rosaries in this shop as well as the stickers!

Catholic Blankets

Three of my favorite Catholic blankets available on Etsy are from PetiteFleurCatholic;

The Little Rose Shop and Stump of Jesse

Both of these shops have fun, soft and attractive Catholic blankets.

Furnished by Frassati

Every home should have at least one crucifix. This one wowed me.

Elegant and Inspiring Candles

Pax Rosa Candles

Modern Saint Candles that are prayerfully poured. I especially love that there is a Wedding at Cana candle! There are two different and distinct styles – both elegant and beautiful.

Catholic Etsy Shops for Men

Baritus Catholic

I highly recommend this shop when you are searching for a gift for a boy or teenager.

This shop is definitely a place to visit for Confirmation gifts and for teachers!

PetiteFleurCatholic

Don’t be fooled by the flowery name – this shop has an incredible beer stein I’ve been eyeing up for my husband for over a year now! Plus, some masculine tees and more!

Rugged Rosaries

This is my go to shop when I am buying a boy or a man a Rosary. Our family favorite is the WWI Battle Bead Rosary.

See more gifts for Catholic men here.

Catholic Mugs and More

The Little Rose Shop

I have at least one mug from this shop and it’s my favorite mug! This shop also sells a darling baby book that is interactive – but they sell out FAST! You’ll love looking at this shop, trust me!

BlessedBeGodBoutique

This darling shop has blankets, bags, mugs, washi tape and more! I could pick a few things for myself here

Rakstar Designs

I love the lemon mug and bought it for my sister. My other favorite is the pretty floral mug

With a Joyful Heart

With a Joyful Heart’s Campfire mugs sell out so quickly during Christmas shopping season! This shop also has awesome sweatshirts and stickers.

Catholic Wedding Gift from Etsy

Della Madonna Rosaries

The Something Blue Rosary is perfect for that special bride (and it will become a family heirloom when she hands it down to her daughter!) Look at all Della’s blue rosaries for this exquisite gift!

Della Madonna’s Signature Collection will help you find a gift for any man or woman on your list.

Top Ten Catholic Etsy Shops

Small Things Great Love

Catholic Wall Rosaries, Rosaries, stickers and more . . .

PetiteFleurCatholic

Catholic tees, gifts for men, blankets and more

Just Love Prints

Catholic stickers, temporary tattoos, gifts for children and more

Sweet Little Ones

Catholic stickers, Catholic inspired prints, window clings, Catholic tees and more

Della Madonna Rosaries

Heirloom Rosaries and more

The Little Rose Shop

Catholic mugs, blankets, children’s gifts and more

Baritus Catholic

Masculing and modern Catholic art, Catholic stickers and Catholic posters

Stump of Jesse

Catholic stickers, washi tape, shirts, blankets and more

Rugged Rosaries

Masculine rosaries and more

BlessedBeGodBoutique

Catholic bags, mugs, tees, stickers and more

Furnished by Frassati

Crosses and Crucifixes

With a Joyful Heart

Catholic Campfire mugs, stickers, car decals, sweatshirts and more

Pax Rosa Candles

Modern Saint Candles that are prayerfully poured

Would you like more Catholic gift ideas?

The post Divine Delights: Unveiling the Best Catholic Etsy Shops appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

Catholic Girls’ Club for Tweens is Here!

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.

If you have seen the Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Girls, you probably were reminded of teen magazines and fun activities girls in 7th grade would have enjoyed back in – oh, 1987?

Many pages of the journal are meant to be shared.

The adolescent girl is very social, so creating a resource for her that celebrates and incorporates that into the book was a high priority for me.

The book also invites the girls to write in private, but giving them a fun way to open the book and get started just seemed like the perfect idea.

The Be Yourself Journal Club: a Guide for Parents and Teachers.

Now, only available in the Catholic Mom Back to School Bundle!

The Be Yourself Journal Club Guide is a tool for parents, teachers and youth ministers who want young girls to get the most out of the Be Yourself Journal.

This guide uses a group setting for young peers to complete many of the activities that are in Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Girls. This guide will help the girls “jump-start” their journal in a way that is exciting, fun and meaningful.

The Be Yourself Journal Club Guide provides five (5) meeting agendas. Each agenda will direct the adult leaders on which activities to focus on, what supplies to have ready, how to run the meeting that includes prompts for discussions.

A Be Yourself Journal Club can have 2 to 12 attendees! Small groups are great for these meetings, so ideal group size is around 8 girls.

Need a copy of the girl’s Be Yourself Journal? Get it here!

This Catholic Tween Girls’ Club – The Be Yourself Journal Club – will allow pre-teen girls to get excited about God’s plan and mission that is uniquely her own!

The Be Yourself Journal Club is organized in a way that the group will meet together on 5 (five) separate occasions. You can get the entire guide in the Back to School Catholic Mom Bundle!!!

Theme for 1st Meeting: You are Unique and Unrepeatable

The first night (or day) will be the day each girl decorates the back cover of their book. This meeting will be much like a fun scrapbooking party!

Supplies needed: A Be Yourself Journal for each club member, holy cards, scrapbooking paper, washi tape, Catholic stickers, a speaker/ radio,/computer for Christian music to be played.

Optional item: Nail Rack to display Catholic Stickers

You can see more about how this looks here: A Must Have at Your Next Catholic Retreat: Introducing the Catholic Sticker Bar

Theme for 2nd Meeting: God’s Love and Expectations

The second meeting will start with a fun game of “Would You Rather” that is a page in the journal. Girls will learn or re-learn that the Lord created the whole world for us to enjoy, but in turn, we are to offer all back to Him. Saints Catherine of Siena and Saint Teresa of Calcutta will offer the girls practical advice through letters and the girls will enjoy another scrapbooking activity – this time with pictures of themselves and their loved ones!

Supplies needed: The girls should have their journals at every meeting. Printed pictures/photographs of each girl with loved ones and friends. Pictures with just one other person are best (take some pictures during the first meeting and have them printed and available this meeting, but tell the girls to bring photos too!!); gel pens, washi tape, scrapbooking paper and scissors.

Theme for Meeting 3: Prayer

The third meeting will discuss prayer. The variety of ways people pray will be discussed. The importance of gratitude will be stressed. Girls will walk in hearing the Gregorian Chant in the background, they will take a “Prayer Style” quiz and they will design a prayer room!

Supplies needed: Home decor ads, glue, scissors, pencils, colored pencils, home decor scrapbooking stickers, gel pens, markers, cozy home stickers, furniture stickers from Etsy, etc.

Stained glass scrapbooking paper might be fun!

These stickers might be fun to have on hand too!

Theme for 4th Meeting: Feelings and Faves

This meeting will start with a prayer and a discussion around the idea and feeling of “peace”.

Girls will name songs that they think sound peaceful. Saint Katharine Drexel’s advice “Peacefully do at each moment what needs to be done” will be discussed. Leaders will guide a dialogue around the topics of hurt feelings and forgiveness. The meeting will end with a collage making activity – praying for their favorite celebs!

Supplies needed: Magazines with popular singers, actors, etc., glue, Taylor Swift stickers?, Leaders may want to ask girls about favorite movies, musicians etc. the first night and see if you can find any magazines or go on Etsy and look for stickers featuring their favorites.

Theme for 5th and Final Meeting: Talents, Gifts and Discovering God’s Mission

The girls will be able to talk about activities they enjoy, sports or skills they would like to try one day, and how they may discover hidden talents throughout their lives. A letter from The Little Flower, Saint Therese’, will remind them that what is most important are not great deeds, but great love.

The meeting will end with a fun “scavenger” hunt that is a page within the journal. Making bracelets optional.

Supplies needed: Be Yourself Journals for each girl in attendance, gel pens, markers, colored pencils, individually wrapped bubble gum pieces and individually wrapped hard candy, band-aids, dollar store lipstick, stickers and small stones (all of these are a part of the “scavenger hunt”!)

Do you want the guide? The only way to get the guide is through the Catholic Mom Bundle – get it today!

Would you like extra help or for me to come and visit your group? Book a call here!

The post Catholic Girls’ Club for Tweens is Here! appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.