Busted Halo’s Sacraments Gift Guide

Spring is here, and along with the newness and rebirth comes the season for many special spiritual moments in people’s lives. You might have been invited to a Baptism, First Communion, or maybe even an ordination. And chances are you have a wedding or two on the horizon!

At Busted Halo, we’re often asked for great Catholic gift ideas for those Sacramental moments. For friends and family, the most important gift you can give is, of course, your presence, but if you’re looking for some creative ways to commemorate the occasion, here are some ideas.

Baptism

Celebrating a little one’s first Sacrament is a special affair, and many like to celebrate a baby’s initiation into the Church with something sentimental. Consider a personalized art print that includes the baby’s name, date of baptism, and a special quote, scripture verse, or message of your choosing, or a child’s cross or miraculous medal for them to keep long into adulthood.

Looking for something a little more baby-friendly? The Wee Believers Baptismal Lamb is a heavenly — and snuggly — friend for the newly Baptised. Bonus: Squeeze the stuffed animal’s belly, and it prays the “Our Father.” We’re also fans of the Fisher-Price Noah’s ark playset. And Chews Life Soft Silicon Rosaries are a sweet way to introduce a child to prayer, even when they’re teething!

Those wishing to give and share the message of God’s love with a baby book might look toward “My Baptism Book” by Sophie Piper, “God’s Dream” by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, or “The Jesus Storybook Bible” by Sally Lloyd-Jones.

First Communion

If you’re looking for something traditional to celebrate a loved one’s first Eucharist, mark this holy time with a personalized Rosary. There are so many unique types of prayerful jewelry, including this rosary bracelet or these wooden all saints bracelets.

For the new reader, pick up “Dear Pope Francis: The Pope Answers Letters from Children Around the World” or “The Night Before My First Communion” by Natasha Wing. And The Great Adventure Kid’s Pack by Ascension Press includes interactive activities to help children bring Bible stories to life.

We’ve always been big fans of Tiny Saints, small charms that feature simple images of holy women and men and can clip easily onto a zipper or backpack. The My Mass Kit is a great way to help young children understand the Mass, and if you’re looking for a little laugh, throw in some Jesus Bandages, because everyone will need a little healing help for future bumps and bruises.

Sweets make most kids pretty happy, so why not throw in some Trappistine candy handmade by the sisters of Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey. The confectionary sales support their religious communities across the world. Another gift sure to make someone smile? Giving the gift of an animal to a family in need through Heifer International in the name of the Communicant.

Confirmation

The gift of cash is always appreciated, and a thoughtful piece of religious jewelry would make for a welcome present. Consider a modern cross necklace for young women or men. Many are able to be customized with a name or Confirmation date as well. For a gift that keeps on giving, check out The Little Catholic Box, which will deliver Catholic goodies to your loved one four times a year.

The Blessed is She Catholic Journaling Bible has quite the fan following, and many Busted Halo readers have enjoyed purchasing this for others. You might also want to consider a spiritual book or two, like classics from C.S. Lewis or The Pocket Gospels and Psalms. Think, too, about gifting a book that has helped your own spiritual growth — a personal recommendation, complete with a handwritten note, is especially meaningful.

Give the gift of time spent together by taking the newly confirmed on a day trip to a nearby shrine or religious site. If your area offers youth Catholic camps or retreat experiences, consider helping defray the cost of a spiritual experience for your loved one.

Marriage

While your first step will likely be a couple’s wedding registry, those hoping to share a faith-focused sentiment can turn toward a beautiful piece of wall art that shares a message of God’s grace. You might also consider gifting a nativity as a special way to celebrate the couple’s first Christmas together.

For the foodie family, encourage quality time in the kitchen with “The Vatican Cookbook,” which offers recipes that have graced the tables of the Vatican for decades, plus a walk through Vatican City with photos and history. Clean up after dinner with a Catholic dishtowel that looks as beautiful as the words adorning it.

Encourage the couple in your life to grow together with books like “All About Us” by Philipp Keel or “The Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman, both filled with thought-provoking questions to help any couple deepen their relationship. And John O’Donohue’s “To Bless the Space Between Us” is filled with poetic blessings for the ordinary and extraordinary events of our lives.

Holy Orders

Know someone getting ordained to the priesthood? A personalized chalice is a customary gift, but usually only from immediate family. If you’re a bit removed, consider gifting the Liturgy of the Hours or a book of blessings that can easily fit in the pocket for travel to homes, hospitals, and the like.

Father Dave affirms that gifts of cash are always appreciated, as well as a nice dinner out to celebrate the occasion. And a gift card to a local religious supply store or an online supplier like Autom or Almy will definitely be put to use for everything from clerical clothing to essential church supplies. A custom vestment like a stole is one way to go above and beyond, but you might want to come together with others to purchase since they are often handmade and can be a bit pricey.