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!!!

Did this article help you? If yes, please share it!

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.

Being an adolescent has NEVER been easy! Even Jesus confused HIS parents when He was 12!

We could spend our whole lives learning about our faith- and how it is a gift.

I don’t know about you, but I had a LOT of questions when I was in elementary school (back then it was 1st through 8th grade).

I wondered what I was supposed to think about when I prayed; what did Jesus expect from me; what did it mean for me to “be yourself”.

As years past, I came to realize that simply putting God first and trusting Him even when it didn’t make sense to me was exactly what God wanted from me.

Still, I wish I had known or heard some advice sooner.

Here’s some advice that could help your tween today (and tomorrow)!

5 Words of Advice Your Catholic Tween Needs to Hear

1. God does not want you to be stressed out.

Be still. We hear that Scripture verse often.

I have not heard the Scripture passage that reads “hustle until you completely burn out.” Have you?

Our children are searching for their gifts and talents.

That can be exhausting.

And even once they find their talents, those gifts are there so that they can strive for Sainthood in a unique and unrepeatable way. Once those gifts and talents become heavy and burdensome, Our Lord Jesus has very specific instructions:

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened,^* and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

Mother Teresa said “Never worry about numbers, help one person at a time and start with the person closest to you.”

Saint Katharine Drexel advised, “peacefully do at each moment what needs to be done.”

When stress comes, our children need to remember that they are loved more than they can imagine, simply because God made her His daughter (or made him His son).

Let’s make sure we are sending that message. Grades and success have their place, but we must love God with all our soul, all our heart and all our mind – that is what is most important.

Trust in the Lord.

2. One of your greatest and most important responsibilities is to avoid sin.

Saint Maria Goretti’s mother taught her to avoid sin at all costs. She knew that sin is so bad for us!

It’s common to speak about what foods are healthy and unhealthy in our culture. We are very aware that there are things that are “good for us” and things that are “bad for us”. But this is not just true for our bodies, it’s also true when it comes to our souls.

Sin is bad for you. Sin is bad for all of us.

As parents, we stress that choices are important. We may say, don’t do that – it’s hurtful to others or it offends God. But sin is also, simply put, bad for us too.

3. You are not meant to be friends with everyone.

Saint Francis de Sales gives this advice:

“Love everyone with a deep love based on charity,… but form friendships only with those who can share virtuous things with you.”

C.S. Lewis wrote a book titled The Four Loves. In it, he names and describes 4 types of love (affection, friendship, eros and charity). Of friendship, he says this:

“our ancestors regarded friendship as something that raised us almost above humanity. . . . It is the sort of love one can imagine between angels.”

His words are in agreement with Saint Francis with DeSales. C.S. Lewis describes:

“the little pockets of early Christians survived because they cared exclusively for the love of ‘the brethren’ and stopped their ears to the opinion of Pagan society all round them. But a circle of criminals, cranks or perverts survives in just the same way; by becoming deaf to the opinion of the outer world . . .”

Recommended books for tween and young teen boys: Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Boys and books from Voyage Comics and Publishing.

4. You need to be intentional about thanking God often.

“In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.”

1 Thessalonians 5:18

We tell our children to “say thank you” all.the.time! But most of the time, it’s to another person.

A wise friend once shared a practice he had with me. He told me, “before I get out of bed in the morning, I thank God for my spouse” … something like that. After he told me that, I decided that I was going to make that a practice of mine too.

More about that conversation in the post 3 Ways to Awaken the Saint Within You

Obviously, your tween doesn’t have a spouse. But I also got some great wisdom once from Gianna Emmanuela Mola (Saint Gianna’s daughter).

I had the opportunity to speak with her after a talk she gave at a local parish. I could not believe how much her father suffered – even after the death of her “Saint mother” as she calls her. Did you know shortly after Gianna’s death, her 6 year old daughter also passed away? My heart ached when I heard that. Yet, Gianna Emmanuela’s talk spoke of how her father taught her to always be so grateful to God.

I asked, “How?, How after all that, can you still be grateful in those moments of such anguish”?

She took a deep breath (the kind people take when they are shocked you just said that out loud) and responded, “I THANK GOD FOR EVERY BREATH I TAKE!”

(read more about this at 5 Lessons I Learned from the Daughter of a Saint)

5. Believe in miracles. Believe in the power of prayer. Never give up on hope.

One quote that I made sure was in both the boy’s and girl’s Be Yourself Journals was this one:

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

Saint Pope John Paul II

We know that life often has disappointments. A tween or young teen is still new to all types of rejection.

Encountering heartache and failure is a normal part of life – but our kids need to learn how to cope with it when it comes along.

This is where faith is truly a gift.

When she doesn’t get a part in the play or he doesn’t make the team, we need to help them practice positive “self-talk”. We need to encourage them to pray about what is on their minds and hearts. We want them to look forward with hope and not to fall into despair. This is so important and needs to be taught over and over again. I love the wisdom attributed to Saint Teresa Avila:

“We pay God a compliment when we ask big things of Him.”

When our children are struggling with math or lost the past 5 wrestling or tennis matches, it is a great gift to encourage them to go to God with this suffering. The more our children go to God in prayer, the stronger their faith will grow. As adults, this faith will be priceless.

These words of advice are from the Be Yourself Journals!

Do you want your tween to hear these words over and over again? Share them and give them a copy of Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Girls or Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Boys.

The post 5 Words of Advice Your Catholic Tween Needs to Hear 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 Ultimate Guide to Catholic Mother’s Day Gifts (2023)

I’ve had my eyes on some Catholic gifts for quite some time now.

The truth is, many of us love to give Catholic gifts because we see how valuable, relevant and beautiful they are.

We see that they are not only fun to receive, but also prompt us to pray more often and help us feel closer to the Lord at times.

So, if you want to give your friend, your daughter or your mom (or your wife) a gift she will truly treasure, here are some amazing ideas!!!

Some of the products listed have been sent to me for an honest review. Others, I simply bought myself because all of them are just that lovely!

Give Your Mom a New Bible

Let’s take a moment to Praise the Lord that us Catholics are truly reading the Bible lately!

The Bible in a Year Podcast, ministries like Walking with Purpose and prayer journals like the Stay Connected Series have re-ignited a love for Sacred Scripture and it is simply beautiful!

Ascension Press, creator of The Bible in a Year Podcast, has an incredible option with The Great Adventure Catholic Bible*. This is the Bible Father Mike uses in each episode of the Bible in a Year podcast.

The narrative approach gives the big picture of salvation history and shows how everything ties together. The color-coded tools make it easy to read and easy to remember.

If she already has a few bibles, get her the Catechism of the Catholic Church from Ascension Press!

Catholic mugs and wine tumblers are great gifts!

I’m super excited to recommend the Prayer Wine Chocolate Wine Tumblers this year!

I went to an event last weekend that was BYO and I loved seeing how many women had brought wine tumblers with them instead of using plastic cups.

Personally, in the warmer months, I prefer white and rose’ over reds. This wine tumbler is ideal because it will keep those wines cold while you chat with your friends!

You can get both Pink and Purple wine tumblers – fill them with chocolates and add a bottle of wine for the perfect Prayer Wine Chocolate gift!

For my afternoon tea, I am loving my Catholic Coffee travel mug! Seriously, this keeps my tea hot when I’m on the go and it truly brings me joy! Use coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE for 15% so they know you heard about it from me!

Give your wife, friend and daughter beautiful Catholic Jewelry

Wearing Catholic jewelry is an incredible gift for two reasons.

Women are encouraged to dress up for many events (especially Mass) and wearing Catholic jewelry is a constant reminder to pray unceasingly, but is also a subtle way to evangelize.

The absolute best gift to give her is a Telos Quarterly Subscription Box!! Don’t worry if you are shopping last minute – she’ll get this gift in the mail and think of you several times this year!

Another idea is to gift her the Telos Trove Gift Box!!!

Featuring FIVE unique pieces from the Telos Art Collection! The Trove Box is valued at over $125, available for just $100.

Keep all the goodies for yourself or share with those you love. A great gift for teachers, birthdays, or Mother’s Day.

Lift up her heart by giving Inspiration Reading and Books

When I was down about life, I enjoyed reading uplifting stories from books like Chicken Soup for the Soul. The truth is, moms worry about things – and people. This fact makes me love the idea of giving a book like Amazing Grace for Mothers*.

Here’s the book’s description from Ascension:

Amazing Grace for Mothers will lift your heart and send your spirit soaring. You will laugh, you will cry, but most of all you will refresh your mothering through stories of love, inspiration, miracles, and God’s amazing grace. This collection of 101 stories will bring you the warmth and support of other women, all dedicated to the same glorious role – motherhood.

Whisper: Finding God in the Everyday* by Danielle Bean is another great book to give this year. My good friend, Katie, is becoming Catholic on Pentecost and she told me that this is a book has been wanting to read! Katie is a mom of three – 2 of her children are teenagers.

Catholic Candles are Hot Gifts this Year!

Whether the woman you’re shopping for is a devout Catholic – or you are hoping to rekindle faith in your loved ones, Catholic candles are great gifts!

And for those who, like me, love prayer, wine and chocolate – I’m excited to share this Wedding at Cana candle!!!

There are a few other scents I have my eye on in the Pax Rosa Candle shop, check them out and see if you or your loved one would really be fired up to pray by one of these gifts!

I gifted myself some Corda candles earlier this year – I love that they do fundraisers!!!

Catholic Moms both need and want clothing and apparel!

I truly love my navy blue Prayer Wine Chocolate sweatshirt and my Prayer Wine Chocolate hoodie!

For the warmer months, the navy looks great with white pants! Take a look at all the options for colors!

For the hoodie, I have the black, but I’m looking at the light grey as more of a summer months color (for those chilly nights and when the air is really cranked up)!

Don’t forget, all moms need socks! Love the ankle socks (no show) from Sock Religious!

Catholic Moms love Catholic Home Decor

On my list is something very close to home . . . a sacred art painting that my son modeled for!!! I would love to have a print of this beautiful painting, matted and framed in my home!

Cena (Holy Family Gyclee Print)

What an absolute honor it was for our family – especially our son – to be invited to model as Jesus in this Holy Family painting!

Cena is a museum quality print of a reflection of the the simple moments of the Holy Family. St Joseph teaches the Christ Child about the passover, foreshadowing what is to come as they sit around the table peacefully together.

The artist and creator behind Visual Grace is Kate Capato. She describes herself as a Missionary of Beauty. She paints for Jesus, her first love and the One our hearts truly ache for . . .

See more of her art at visualgrace.org

If you want to browse more Catholic Home Goods browse this post: Catholic Home Goods that are Beautiful.

Did you like any of the gifts you saw here? Share this post and leave a comment!

God Bless You!!

*books with asterisks were sent to me from Ascension in the hopes to be listed in this gift guide!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Catholic Mother’s Day Gifts (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.

Unicorns, rainbows, strawberries and stickers – from the time I was a little girl – and even still, these things bring me a joyful smile and a happy heart.

There is wonder to be enjoyed this time of year no matter what age you are . . . and these gifts bring me back to the magic of it all.

I have found myself seeking the perfect gift for my best friend’s daughter – she is in 7th grade and is receiving her Confirmation this week.

My daughter is 5 and I have a bunch of nieces.

I have a wish list too – plus, I love buying gifts for my family this time of year.

So on my search I have found some fun finds – and I just had to share them with you!

Colorful Fruits and the Holy Spirit are always in Fashion

Okay, I have found a Catholic Sticker that I love, a shirt that is the perfect Confirmation or Christmas gift for a Catholic tween and blankets that are cute and cozy all in the same shop. That shop – Stump of Jesse!

This Holy Spirit sticker – I’m buying several!

I am giving that sticker and this tee to the beautiful 12 year old I know who is getting Confirmed this week. I might be getting one of these Fruits of the Holy Spirit tees for her Mama too! I mean, I want one

And before we go onto the next shop and basket of ideas – can we talk about these blankets?????

I have had my eye on the Saint Clare one for awhile (I was a sponsor to a beautiful young woman who chose Saint Clare for her Confirmation saint a couple years ago). Now, I just discovered this Pop of Flowers blanket and I’m loving that you can literally wrap yourself or someone else in prayer in it!

Please, go browse this shop and tell me what you think (yes, you can comment below!!!)!

Cozy Cuddles, Coloring + Cocoa are not just a treat for Little Girls

My daughter and I often sit on the couch and color together. It’s one of my favorite things!

We are both totally into it. It’s so wonderful to get cozy under a blanket, have a mug of a hot beverage and color! (Or an adult beverage in your Prayer Wine Chocolate Tumbler)

I mean, these mugs form With a Joyful Heart make me want to make Hot Chocolate right now!

If you want more fun Catholic blankets to choose from – definitely check out this Pop of Flowers blanket and Blessed Be God Boutique. While your there, grab a mug for your coffee or tea – or hot cocoa!

Looking for some coloring pages? I have ones that are perfect for adults and kids!

The Be Yourself Coloring pages have inspiring quotes, Scripture passages and even prayers – and the designs look very similar to popular adult coloring books. We print them out often in this house – for me and the kids!

You can give these as a gift by printing them out and putting them in a binder. Add colored pencils and gel pens – maybe even a few stickers – and it’s a really fun present!

If you have a daughter, niece, sister or Godchild between the ages of 10 and 13 – definitely give her the Be Yourself Journal if she doesn’t have it yet! It is made for her!!!

Now, more than ever, we must help our daughters see themselves as God made them – beautiful, unique, unrepeatable and not one hair on her head was a mistake! The Be Yourself Journal celebrates those truths and the Truth!

Stay extra warm in your Prayer Wine Chocolate hoodie!

(Don’t want a hood, no problem, get this sweatshirt!)

Don’t forget to throw on your PRAY HOPE AND DON’T WORRY socks while you relax on the couch!

Catholic Rainbows and Unicorns both new and nostalgic

My daughter is only 5, so toys are still very much an exciting part of our lives. I am so excited about Shining Light Dolls new Saint Justina of Padua and Unicorn Wooden Set!

If you shop from Shining Light Dolls, use the coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE for 10% off!

St. Justina of Padua was a young woman that lived around the turn of the 4^th century in Padua, Italy. From childhood, Justina had a deep love of Jesus and wanted to live the life of a religious. In traditional Christian art, St. Justina is portrayed with a unicorn, which is a symbol of her purity and virtue. She is the patron saint of Padua, Italy.

You can also get this Unicorn prints for room decor!

If you want to see more Catholic Toys, definitely check out this new post: The Catholic Toy Shops are Rockin’ 2022!

All the rainbows please!

Cuddle under the blankets on the couch with a rainbow Rosary you keep inside a rainbow rosary pouch.

Cover your journal in Catholic rainbow stickers.

Rainbow stickers are so fun!!! Sweet Little Ones shop has RAINBOW ROSARY stickers!!!

Don’t forget all the sparkles (Catholic jewelry)

And last but not least, my daughter, sister, sister-in-law and me all love Telos Jewelry!!!

I could go on, but I must start actually shopping myself!

Happy Shopping! God Bless You!

The post Catholic Gifts for the Young and the Young at Heart 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.

Up for a dare?

I dare you to give a Catholic gift to at least 5 people you are shopping for this year!

Let’s really keep Christ in Christmas.

Let’s put our money where are hearts are – in gifts that will bring our loved ones closer to Christ through prayer!

Catholic Gifts for Men

A Modern Bible

The Great Adventure Bible from Ascension Press

My husband has a Bible because his Aunt Betty Ann, who happens to be a Sister of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, gave us one for a wedding gift.

Chances are, your husband, dad or brother hasn’t owned a Bible since – maybe high school? Get him this Bible that goes along with the amazing Bible in a Year podcast.

A Masculine Rosary

A WWI Battle Beads Rosary by Rugged Rosaries

My husband and son both have a set of these and really like them.

A Catholic French Press and Catholic Coffee

My husband loves God and coffee. I am so excited to give him some gifts from Catholic Coffee for Christmas this year!

(If you purchase from them, use the coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE and get 15%off!)

Catholic Coffee’s branding and products are just spot on when it comes to the modern Catholic man.

The Catholic Coffee logo is the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It’s simple, beautiful and inspiring.

Each coffee flavor is named after a Saint and the artwork that represents each Saint is extremely impressive.

I am super excited to gift my husband The French Press!

I shared a gift set from this company on Facebook, and my friend’s husband told his wife that he wants one of the gift sets for Christmas!!!

Catholic Coffee has mugs, coffee inspired by different Saints and now – K-cups too! This gift (or gifts) will make those Catholic men in your life jolly this Christmas!

Catholic Mugs

In Catholicism the pint the pipe and the cross can all come together – G.K. Chesterton 

Catholic gifts for men can be really fun!

The G.K. Chesterton Stein Mug is a unique, masculine and honestly cool Catholic gift!

Give it with some beer and treats made by monks to make this gift “super-Catholic”!

The G.K. Chesterton Stein Mug is a brand new gift idea here this year and I love it!!!

Catholic Coffee has several mugs that will please your caffeine enthusiast!

Don’t forget to use the coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE for 15% off!

Would you like to see more Catholic Gift ideas for men? Check out Catholic Gifts for Men (2022)

Catholic Gifts for Women

Catholic Accessories

This silk Catholic Scarf from Studio Senn is lovely! I’ve been wearing mine tied on my purse (inspired by a catalog cover) and I just love it! It has been such a conversation piece too. The Pelican in Piety scarf combines the sacred symbol of a Pelican with fun florals to create a bold and beautiful statement piece!

I’ve been wearing my scarf by having it tied to my purse!

Catholic Mugs and Coffee too!

I love coffee – and I pick the same mugs to drink it from over and over again every morning. I love tall Coffee Mugs! I have two (yes 2) from The Little Rose Shop!

I highly recommend giving the Morning Offering Coffee Cup to a woman you love this Christmas!

I honestly love The Little Rose Shop! There are so many cute mugs, soft and beautiful Catholic blankets, Catholic tees and more! Trust me, you’ve got to go check out this shop!

And don’t forget to give some Coffee from Catholic Coffee too!

use the coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE and get 15%off!)

Catholic Tea

Do you have women on your list that are more interested in enjoying a hot cup of tea than a coffee? This just in — Sacred Heart Tea!!!

I am just loving how Our Lord’s Sacred Heart keeps showing up on this gift guide!!!

Lots of options – including black tea, green tea, organic, herbal and more! This is a new shop for me and I’m loving this option! Not everyone is a coffee drinker – for the Tea Sipping Catholics – check out Sacred Heart Tea!

A Prayer Wine Chocolate Sweatshirt and Wine Tumbler

Yes, these products just hit my own shop and I am so excited! I shared the wine tumblers on Facebook and one friend said, “I feel like this is about time!” Haha! Long overdue!

Get one for you and one for a friend this year! For the wine tumblers, two colors are available (purple and rose’ pink).

I love my Prayer Wine Chocolate hoodie (mine is black) – probably because of the pocket in the front – perfect for my cell phone!

I also have a few Prayer Wine Chocolate sweatshirts and I wear them often! I love comfy clothes.

If you have a friend who loves being Catholic, but really doesn’t enjoy wine – here’s an alternative sweatshirt: States of Faith by Catholic Concepts

Add NO SHOW SOCKS from Sock Religious!!! I love my Padre Pio ones and I can’t wait to get more! My favorites are the Come Holy Spirit and Saint Joan of Arc pairs!

Catholic Jewelry

A Miraculous Medal Necklace (like this one from Boho Handmaids)

Stud earrings from 12th and Blossom

Our friends at Telos Art are offering a special sale right now.

Highly recommended: One or two necklaces from this shop! The cameos are making a huge impression this year!

Best gift award: The Quarterly Subscription Box

I don’t think I need to write words here – just go look at it . . . I think you’ll agree!

Today through Sunday, November 27 all orders receive an automatic 15% discount.

Orders $150+ also automatically receive free First Class shipping.

Telos Art Jewelry is beautiful, definitely browse the pieces and gift a few!

A Catholic Planner

I’ve been using the Catholic Mothers Planner for a couple years now and this year – I wrote a reflection in the 2023 Catholic Mothers Planner

A Journaling Kit

If the woman you are shopping for loves to prayer journal or bible journal, definitely get her some gifts from Open Journey!

Open Journey, a branch of Ingrid Art Studio, features faith and inspirational art, creative Bible journaling and Bible study kits and devotionals.

A Plan to Pray Together More!

I hear women often saying they wish they had “more Catholic friends”. Nurture the friendships you have and watch the joy of Christ spread to others! Gift a friend a How to Plan Your Own Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat Guide and make a commitment to make praying together a regular event! Add a wine tumbler and a Rosary to make this the best gift ever!

More ideas for women? Check out: 5 Simple Gifts Catholic Women Love

Catholic Gifts for Children

A Play Nativity Set

The best way to keep Christ in Christmas with children is to give them toys about the true event! Both Shining Light Dolls and Saintly Heart have toy Nativity Sets!

The Shining Light Dolls Nativity Set (use coupon code PRAYERWINECHOCOLATE for 10% off) is so cute and conforms to all ASTM standards for toy safety. It’s perfect for children as young as 18 months but will be enjoyed for years into childhood!

My 10 year old son put the Saintly Heart Nativity Set on his Christmas wish list!

These play Nativity sets will sell out! Please do not wait to order them!

Toys from Shining Light Dolls

When I was 11 years old the one toy I wanted for Christmas was a soft, stuffed bear. I still remember how happy I was to get that! So, if your daughter is growing out of the toy stage – help her hang on a little more with a Shining Light Doll plush. They are so cute! And these presents really are enjoyed by little girls of all ages.

For the little ones, definitely check out the new wooden toys which include Saint George and a dragon and Saint Justine and a Unicorn!

Comic Books from Voyage Comics

This shop serves boys to men! The mission of Voyage Comics is to create exceptional entertainment, informed by Catholic values, that inspires people to live a heroic life. Through our products, we seek to advance the truth, beauty and goodness found in powerful stories.

Wooden Play Sets and Catholic Bath Toys from Saintly Heart

Saintly Heart makes toys and gifts for children of all ages! Teethers for babies, wooden toys for toddlers, pre-schoolers and elementary aged kids that love to use their imagination!

I have bought several of these toys as gifts and they are so loved by the children and their parents! Definitely grab some and have fun giving them!

Don’t forget to add some fun socks! My 10 year old, after looking through the “A Very Catholic Christmas Catalog” listed several pairs! His wish list included the Nativity Socks and the Saint Benedict socks. We love Sock Religious!

Catholic Gifts for Tweens and Teens

If your child has been asking for a smart phone or Apple Watch – I have a great alternative for you.

The Gabb Watch or Smart Phone!

Gabb Phones have an innovative spam filter for texting, no internet browser, no social media apps, no app store, and no games.

Kids are protected from falling prey to sexual predators, stumbling on explicit content, being victims of cyberbullying, or becoming screen addicted.

This is a gift your older child will love – and that you will feel more comfortable giving.

Gabb is currently running a great offer – a free device with a 2-year contract PLUS a free accessory with each device!

Catholic Books that make Fantastic Gifts

Voyage Comics, Ascension Press and Our Sunday Visitor all produce amazing books for Catholics of all ages.

The Be Yourself Journal for Catholic Girls continues to impress and delight!

A recent review from Amazon gave it another 5 STARS and reads:

“I got this journal for my niece. When I looked through the pages I was blown away by the beautiful artwork, the varied faith activities, and just how fun it looked. My niece is going to love this so much. It is the best Christmas gift she will get. It will help her in her faith formation, get her to be more introspective, and best of all keep her off the hours of TV. I love this. Definitely will be back for more products.“

Be Yourself: A Journal for Catholic Boys has also received some recent positive reviews. One customer stated on Amazon:

“Simply beautiful and inspiring. Beautifully achieved. I want to give one to every young man I know. “

Still want more gift ideas? Download A Very Catholic Christmas Gift Guide!

Book suggestions for younger Catholic girls: Women Doctors of the Church and Molly McBride and the Party Invitation.

For Boys ages 8 and up: Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Boys; The Great Adventure Kids Catholic Bible Chronicles and Donuts After Mass: a Tale of Walking with Jesus

For younger boys: My First Interactive Mass Book, Holy Mysteries: 12 Investigations into Extraordinary Cases and My Catholic Picture Bible.

Enter the Giveaway and you could win:

A Plush Doll from Shining Light Dolls

A comic book from Voyage Comics

A silk scarf from Studio Senn

Saint Nicholas coffee from Catholic Coffee

A Coffee mug from The Little Rose Shop

A Catholic Mothers Planner from Ascension Press

My First Interactive Mass Book by Jennifer Sharpe from Ascension Press

A pair of socks from Sock Religious

A How To Plan Your Own Prayer Wine Chocolate Retreat Guide (Digital)

A beautiful piece of Catholic jewelry

Tea from Sacred Heart Tea

Saint Wine Charms from Madonna Rose

Surprise gifts from a Catholic Etsy shop and more!

The post The Best Catholic Christmas Gifts to Give in 2022 (Gift Guide and Giveaway!) 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.

“They are all confused”.

This was what a former student of mine, who now teaches middle school, said to me recently about her students.

It is completely normal for a child going through adolescence to be confused about who they are.

It was confusing in the 1980’s and 1990’s- I vividly remember that.

It seems like the confusion has accelerated immensely in recent years.

My former student agrees.

We want our daughters to be comfortable and confident to just be themselves . . . but:

We can’t tell a 12 year old girl to “just be yourself” and walk away.

Most 12 year-olds are wondering who they are!

We can help them to discover her identity in Christ.

How?

By answering these questions – even if we haven’t heard our children ask them out loud.

Question: Is my gender a mistake?

Answer: No. God made you on purpose, with a purpose and nothing that God has ever created was, is or will be a mistake.

“One has to be content with what has been assigned him by heaven” (Jn. 3:27)*

Remind and reassure your daughter that she was created out of pure love by God the Father.

God gave her a specific body and that body is . . .

“a window into the depth of the person who is inescapably male or female. We can think of the body as a compass which points us toward love—both the love which is our origin and the love which fulfills us. After all, “it is not good for the man to be alone”

(Gen. 2:18): (from Focus article on the Catholic Church and gender)

Tell her she is unique and unrepeatable.

Assure her that God has a plan and mission for her. We need to tell her that she should pray often; giving thanks to Our Lord and asking the Holy Spirit for guidance.

Question: Do my actions really matter? How important is it for me to obey the Commandments and go to Mass?

Answer: Little acts of faith done are really important.

“If we are faithful in little, we will obtain grace for the big.“

Saint Katharine Drexel

We need to stress how important little acts of faith are in our daily lives.

I am a firm believer that every young person should watch the original Karate Kid movie.

When Daniel finally confronts Mr. Miyagi about painting the fence, sanding the floor, waxing the cars, and all the other chores he felt were “pointless” he quickly realizes that those acts were not in vain.

Daniel was being trained to defend himself physically.

Our little acts of faith allow our soul to be trained.

God does not want to cause stress in our lives.

God wants us to be faithful in the little so we will have grace for the big stuff.

Our Lord wants us to help one person at a time, and start with the person closest to us.

God wants us to enjoy His creation and smile at others. He desires our hearts and our trust.

Question: Did God give me any talents? OR Why would God give me this talent?

Answer: Yes, God gives everyone special talents. God gives us talents so that we can grow to closer to Him and serve others.

“So let your light shine before your fellow men . . .”

It is totally fine if you don’t yet know what talents He has given you.

It is totally fine if you can’t imagine how your talent could help another person. One day it will be revealed to you… until then, work honestly and diligently.

Question: Why can’t I be friends with so and so – God says to love everyone!!!

Answer: It’s okay to not be friends with everyone. In fact, you are not meant to be friends with all of your peers.

“Love everyone with a strenuous love based on charity, but form friendships only with those who can share virtuous things with you.”

– St. Francis de Sales

God doesn’t want you to be friends with everyone.

Yes, you are to love others. Yes, you are to show kindness and compassion. But friendship is a special gift for a few people.

Do not let popularity become a god.

Many teens make being liked or popular such a priority that God’s voice becomes distant and difficult to hear.

We need to stress the need to stay close to Him and make His will their top priority.

Get a copy of Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Girls here.

Question: How do I love myself?

Answer: Take care of yourself. Care for both your body and your soul.

Self-care and self-love includes taking care of your soul.

“You have a soul, be careful with it.”

-Chris Pratt, actor

Discuss Spiritual health.

We often speak about what is good for the body (veggies) and not good (junk food, drugs, etc.)

We should not forget to tell our children that sin is bad for them!

We need to teach them that it is critical for them to avoid sin. If she does not know if something is a sin or not… she should ask you! And chances are if she “doesn’t know” it’s probably not the best choice.
Our souls need to be cared for just like our bodies.

Want more advice like this? I recommend reading “How To Talk To Your Tween (or Teen) About Sex”

What would you add? How can we help young girls “Be who God meant them to be and set the world ablaze “!?

If you want your daughter to grow in her relationship with God and get to know herself while having fun, I recommend giving her a copy of Be Yourself: a Journal for Catholic Girls!

Want to know when more resources, books, lesson plans and Bible studies become available? Sign up for the Prayer Wine Chocolate Newsletter today!

*Found this in an incredible book given to me recently: My Other Self – the copy I have was published in the 1950’s, but it was recently re-published and is great for reminding us as adults who God has called us to be and how God is calling us to think and live.

The post Your Catholic Daughter Has Questions; Here are the Answers 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.

Catholic Christians believe that God made each and every one of us unique and unrepeatable.

No one is a mistake.

No one’s gender is a mistake.

In fact, we believe in the beauty and wonder of God’s creation and that our bodies and our souls reflect .

Our culture is sending out a ton of messages that girls are hearing as young as age 4.

Some messages are not bad. Kindness, compassion and loving ones neighbor is certainly valued by both our society and our religion.

Some messages are confusing and quite misleading.

As a mother of a young Catholic daughter, I hope to cultivate a place in my daughter’s heart that will allow the seed of faith to take root so that she can remain in Jesus her whole life.

I want my Catholic daughter to see value in virtue.

I want her to find comfort in prayer and the Sacraments.

I want us both to go to heaven, and while we are striving to make it there, I was us to experience awe and wonder of our great God!

As someone who worked with young people since college – as a camp counselor and an educator – I can say with confidence this – I understand the adolescent age group well.

They are pure. They have huge dreams for the world to be a better place. They want to be loved. They long for approval. They want to feel respected and admired.

When we are thinking about giving them gifts this season, here is what I suggest.

Catholic Girls and Christmas: What to Give and Why

1.Give Longer Moments of Undivided Attention

It may sound cheesy, but even though girls act like they want to be treated like an “independant woman”, they really crave our eye contact, our active and engaged listening, our smiles, compliments and yes – even hugs!

Why?

Daughters want to hear stories from their moms (and dad’s) lives!

When I interviewed a Chastity speaker for the article How to Talk to Your Catholic Tween About Sex, this advice was given with great conviction:

Katelyn D’Adamo, Director of Generation Life, also wants you the parent to know, your child wants to hear from YOU! Generation Life speakers go into classrooms and discuss Chastity and find this truth over and over again. The students want to hear from their parents. It might be awkward, but young children will appreciate that you had the courage to speak with them about this topic.

*Camp mugs are fun to give and yes, I love that there is a cute, Catholic option. . . . but there’s something deeper here.

There’s 2. Your daughter might have outgrown tea parties, but she has not outgrown one on one time with you. Whether it’s mugs with hot chocolate and a promise of a date in the kitchen, or a gift card to Starbucks, this gift can have a beautiful memory attached too.

2. Give Advice They Can Use

Have you ever heard a piece of advice and thought, “I wish I heard this YEARS ago?!”

That’s how I felt when I heard this quote from Mother (now Saint) Teresa:

“Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time and always start with the person nearest you.”

As a young girl I often questioned God’s will and purpose for me. I didn’t realize the importance and significance of little acts of love.

One of my favorite pages in the girl’s Be Yourself Journal has this quote in the middle of a practically blank page.

The directions on this page encourage the owner to make a collage around the quote of pictures of her and one other person.

There is plenty of room for her to create a “scrapbook-like” page featuring herself with friends and family members!

This fun activity is meant to remind young girls that God sees incredible beauty in little acts of love…

That little things often are really quite significant.

If you have a pre-teen or young teen daughter/niece/Goddaughter or sister, consider giving them
a fun mini Instant camera,

These mini-cameras are on lots of gift guides for teens and tweens!

Give a camera and a journal, and put a bookmark or sticker in this page! She’ll have a great time with your gift and you gave her some great advice that will save her from some unnecessary stress in life!

3. Give Trendy Styles with a Catholic or Christian Twist

The mini cameras are on lots of gift guides this year. I highly suggest giving this camera with the girl’s Be Yourself Journal so they have a place to put the pictures they take and channel that energy into a fruitful, learning opportunity!

Another gift guide I was looking at under the “Girl/Teen Gift Guide” category for this year listed:

“Zodiac perfect tiny stud” earings.

There are plenty of cute stud earrings that have a Christian message that girls will love!

Love these ones from Pink Salt Riot:

Light of the World acrylic stud earrings

White Heart Acrylic Post earrings

Unicorn Stud Earrings

Gold Cross Stud Earrings

Silver Moon Studs

4. Give a journal

Every gift guide I see for this age group suggests a journal.

Having taught 7 through 12th graders I can assure you, many times they have NO IDEA WHAT TO WRITE!

This doesn’t mean journals are not a good idea – on the contrary, journals are a great idea and getting our daughters to get in the practice of keeping a journal will help them have a richer prayer life and greater success in life.

I was on a business call recently and a woman who I was talking to about business tips and help held up her journal and said something about journaling. I told her that I have some Advent journal prompts for her if she was interested and what she said next I have to share with you . . .

She said:

“I have never been a journaler, but every successful person I follow on social media seems to journal and recommends it, so I am going to try it.”

We need to encourage our girls to journal. But let’s make sure they know the most important person we need to bring our thoughts, fears, feelings and aspirations too . . . Our Lord Jesus.

5. Give Girls Cozy and Comfy Gifts

They might feel to old to ask for stuffed animals – or maybe you have just banned anymore from coming into your house – but that desire for something soft and huggable – does it really ever go away?

I am going to say as a grown woman – no, it does not lol!

Most girls and women love a cozy throw blanket.

Depending on the girl you are shopping for style, she might like the one pictured above or

This one from Rakstar Designs: Catholic Fleece Blanket

Or this Tapestry Blanket from Pink Salt Riot: You Are Tapestry

Let’s not forget the comfort of prayer.

A prayer journal, a Rosary, even a Miraculous Medals necklace – these things can and will bring comfort when held and used.

Want more ideas?

I have more ideas over at Spiritual Stocking Stuffers: Catholic Edition

Want Catholic gift ideas for the whole family? Check out this list!

The post Catholic Girls and Christmas: What to Give and Why 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.

Are you completely spent by the end of the day?

Do you go, go, go, until all of a sudden it’s bedtime?

It can be difficult to do any kind of self-care when you are working full-time or when you have young children.

I am so tired at the end of the day.
So reading a book is often the last thing I want to do.

Or I want to read, but I’m so tired, my brain is not exactly in the place to comprehend thick texts that have been written by a very wise Harvard professor.

However, there have been a few lately that I have really enjoyed reading, even after a long tiring day!

Catholic Books for Tired Moms

These are not parenting books. . . .although I should probably be reading those. These books help us grow in faith with the Lord through His Sacred Heart, His Mother and the Saints.

The first I recommend reading is:

Consecration to Saint Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father

Personally, I enjoyed reading this book. I didn’t start it in a true effort to “consecrate” myself to Saint Joseph. Honestly, I just love Saint Joseph and was curious to learn more about him. I was not disappointed. I learned a few things about our faith that I don’t recall ever learning about before!

I love how this type of book is set up. Day one – read these pages . . .then Day 2, here are some more pages. This worked for me since it was a short read and gave me time to scroll social media before I passed out from total exhaustion.

Your Blue Flame: Drop the Guilt and Do What Makes You Come Alive

“The Glory of God is man fully alive.”

Saint Irenaeus

Every one of us has a blue flame–a special skill, a personal passion, a gift or talent. But when caught up in life’s busyness, it’s too easy to make a habit of suppressing our most joyful contributions to the world.

I actually read this book last summer. I remember being on vacation with my in-laws and after reading one page – going over to my sister-in-law, handing her the book and saying, “you have got to read this”! It was a great, inspiring story that made me say, “no way” as I read it!

Called By Name: 365 Daily Devotions for Catholic Women

So a little disclosure here – I wrote two of the three hundred sixty five devotions

This devotional was put together by the women who run WINE (Women in the New Evangelization) . . . I mean, how could I not be a part of such an awesome Catholic ministry!

This daily devotional follows the liturgical seasons and includes major holidays and some feast days. You can begin your reading journey at any point in the year. As with all WINE offerings, you are invited to read, reflect, and respond using lectio divina. Each day includes

• a Bible verse or passage for meditation;
• daily reflections;
• a closing prayer to focus your heart on an important truth or goal; and
• a tangible action you can carry out each day, such as volunteering, going to Confession, or donating clothes to charity

A Painted Rosary

In full disclosure, I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

You might notice that this post actually has more than 5 books listed. One reason for this is because this book, is more a prayer aid than a read.

Praying the Rosary is such a gift in my life that feels like constant running and perpetual overwhelm. It gives my mind time to slow down and be still. But, there are always distractions. This book was created to help us focus on the mystery and the meditation. It’s also a nice visual to hand to a hyper child during a family Rosary!

A Painted Rosary cleverly pairs a modern and sleek design with the richness of traditional sacred art to transform how you pray the Rosary. Increase prayerful focus and deepen your meditation as you become immersed in the 20 mysteries of the Rosary through paintings from the 11th – 17th centuries. With limited distractions and containing just enough content without being overwhelming, A Painted Rosary is designed to be used while praying. 

Secrets of the Sacred Heart: Twelve Ways to Claim Jesus’ Promises in Your Life

This is an easy read with such comforting reminders of how much Jesus loves you. When Emily came out with this book, I reached out to her and said, “Please, can I review this book!”

In Secrets of the Sacred Heart, Emily Jaminet—executive director of the Sacred Heart Enthronement Network—weaves personal testimony, teachings, and reflection questions while exploring and applying each of Christ’s promises.

This book is set up like the Consecration of Saint Joseph book . . .Day 1/Promise 1; then next day, next promise, etc. This again is great for a tired mom at the end of a long day.

 Exploring the Catholic Classics: How Spiritual Reading Can Help You Grow in Wisdom (Stay Connected Journals for Catholic Women #2) 

I read this book a while back and I have to include it in the “books for busy moms” post!

The Catholic classics are full of wisdom, advice, and inspiration to enrich the lives of modern women, and Exploring the Catholic Classics is a great way to access that wisdom and apply it to your life.

Tiffany Walsh introduces readers to carefully selected excerpts from each spiritual classic and offers her own insights before inviting you to respond to reflection prompt

A chapter of this book inspired the post Saint Francis De Sales’ 5 Practical Tips for a Better Day (free printable included)

What books do you recommend?

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Register today!

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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.

Now that we finally have a Boy’s version of the Be Yourself Journal, it can be a great tool in a Catholic school classroom or in a religious education program!

As a 7th and 8th grade teacher, I used journal prompts in the morning to start the day and our religion classes.

In the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, curriculum guidelines for each grade level (from grade 1 to grade 8) included “Journal keeping”. I imagine many other diocese include this same guide or at least recommendation.

The following is an excerpt from the course guidelines:

Journal Keeping
This prayer form (tool) enables a student to reflect on the goals and directions of his/her life, and
to appreciate and deepen a personal relationship with a loving Father. It provides a method to
assess these experiences.

The document then continues with many examples of techniques that could be used:

Some examples include: journaling may be in the form of an informal letter; reflecting on personal talents and gifts; responding to Scripture passages and inspirational quotes, etc.

All of these techniques and more are within both the Boy and Girl Be Yourself Journals!

Here are some ideas on how and when to incorporate the journal into your daily lesson plans.

First act of the day

You can.not.escape.the paperwork.

You have to take roll; collect permission slips, notes, and whatever the main office needs from you.

Journaling is a great activity for the students while you are doing those monotonous tasks.

When I taught, I would write a journal prompt on the board before the students were in the classroom for the day. When they came in and we began our day, I had to take roll and often do other things like collect permission slips, absentee notes and other paperwork that had to be done but did not allow my attention to be on my students but instead paperwork.

This was the perfect time for journaling.

Have the students choose what to do within a certain section or guide them more with directives like:

Today choose a coloring page to color.

Today, do something within the prayer section of the book.

Today, fill out one of the first 5 pages.

At the end of each marking period, I would call each student up and have them stand next to me as I quickly flipped through the book. I wanted to make sure the student had worked on the journal as instructed, but I didn’t read or stare at any page for more than a second, that way each student’s privacy was respected. I wanted them to feel like they could truly use it. It was an easy way to get a good grade and often brought up the student’s average.

Use as an anticipatory set

Is that a flashback from college? I can’t believe I remember that term from “How to write a lesson plan 101”, but, I do.

Some teachers call it a warm up or a “hook”; but to remind you what this is, here is the definition from cultofpedagogy.com:

ANTICIPATORY SET

(noun) A brief portion of a lesson given at the very beginning to get students’ attention, activate prior knowledge, and prepare them for the day’s learning. Also known as advance organizer, hook, or set induction. 

The point of the anticipatory set is to get students curious, wake up their brains, and give them a taste of what they are about to learn.

Talking about God’s creation or gratitude in prayer?

Play “Would You Rather”?

Discussing Jesus’ Miracles? There’s a great page on that in the Boy’s Journal.

This is also a great opportunity to use activities that are only in one journal. Use the girls and the boys to get ideas on how to start discussing Jesus’ miracles; how to be a peacemaker; ways to live the faith when busy, etc.

Take activities out of the book and create life size group projects.

Virtue Graffiti Wall

Got a chalkboard or white board – hand it over to the students.

(see Boy’s Journal)

Create a Billboard

Roll out the butcher paper and take out the poster boards.

(see Boy’s Journal)

Create a prayer corner in the classroom.

(See Girl’s Journal – what’s your prayer style and decorate a prayer room)

Hope News Report.

(See Boy’s Journal)

Writing in the Sand Slide Show.

From the Boy’s Journal: Live near a beach or a playground with a sandbox? Send students out for a homework assignment. Read John 8:3-0. Discuss how it feels when you are “ganged up on”. Ask students to think abnd pray about what Jesus would say to bullies today. Direct them to write this message in the sand and take a picture of what they wrote. Put all the pictures in a slide show and watch together as a class!

Bonus idea: Take the students to Eucharistic Adoration with their journals! It can be very difficult to quiet the mind; these journals guide the reader to turn their thoughts toward God.

Are you located “across the pond” in the United Kingdom? If so, great news! You can purchase the Be Yourself Journal in the U.K. through the Catholic Mothers website!

Got more ideas??? Share them in the comments!

Want to hear more ways to use this journal? Sign up for my email list here so will get the next post!

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The post 3 Ways to Use the Be Yourself Journals in the Classroom 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.

He’s asking a lot of questions about what’s on the news lately.

She seems nervous about everything.

Being a pre-teen is a peculiar age already – and now we are facing a worldwide pandemic and quarantine.

How do you help them cope?

Here are 3 Quick Tips on how to sooth your Catholic Tween’s Anxiety

More in depth resources are available to help both you and your child overcome anxiety in the Pray, Hope and Don’t Worry Catholic Mom Bundle – available only until March 27th.

Share your story

We have all felt anxiety at some point in our lives. Sometimes we forget how own life experience can truly be wisdom to share. Think about a time when you felt anxious. What was the best advice you got about how to deal with things that caused you fear or stress? What works for you now – and what never did. Sharing a personal story means a lot to our kids. They’ll remember it and take it to heart (even if they don’t show it).

Give Practical Strategies and independent techniques to help your child cope

Anxious Kids; Troubled Hearts is a practical guide to soothing childhood anxiety.

In this guide, Ginny names more than one dozen practical strategies that will help your child cope with high stress and feelings of anxiety.

A number of them are incorporated into the Be Yourself Journal for girls like: writing down worries; listing things you love; reading comforting Scripture passages as well as Saint quotes and pray.*

Other suggestions made by Ginny include deep breathing, visualization, movement and more.

Unlike the journal which is meant for tween girls; this resource if for the parents of the tween – both boys and girls.

Inside Anxious Kids; Troubled Hearts, you’ll find information, consolation, and practical, applicable coping strategies you can use right now.

Once you’ve made your way through the packet, you will:

• Understand how anxiety manifests in children

• Develop insight into the root of your child’s anxiety

• Have a basic, underlying strategy for dealing with global and acute anxiety in children

• Build a toolbox of specific techniques for easing a child’s anxiety

Anxious Kids; Troubled Hearts also includes prayers, scripture verses, and saint quotations perfect for restoring the whole family’s sense of peace.

Embrace Distractions and Genuine Bonding

Distraction is a form a pain management. Anxiety can be felt as emotional pain. In fact, distraction is one way to cope with panic disorder (Read more here: (Distraction Techniques for Panic Disorder)

According to Kidshealth.org:

“Doing things with those we feel close to deepens our bonds, allowing us to feel supported and secure.“

Pull out the Apples to Apples, a deck of cards, Pictionary or even the Chess Set. Play a game that will allow laughter and distraction.

After being home together all day, The Question Jar offers an easy way for families to connect and share. Contains a 26 page eBook and 150 printable prompts to cut apart and start using today!

Remember to never underestimate the power of prayer and complete surrender to Jesus. The Catholic Mom Bundle includes over 20 coloring pages that allow a person to spend time in prayer and meditation over Scripture verses, wisdom of the Saints and short prayers to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Our faith can provide great comfort in moments of uncertainty.

The post How to Sooth Your Catholic Tween’s Anxiety appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.