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June 06, 2005
What Catholic Dads want for Father’s Day
Here’s my list of great Gift ideas for fathers this Father’s Day – and it has a certain legitimacy, since I am a Catholic dad! Books are the obvious choice for me – I’m personally a voracious reader, so I’ll start there. But of course, some dads are not as interested in reading, so I have some other gift ideas as well (like the desk icon).
Religious books
The obvious favorite is Head of the Family; a book written for Catholic dads. It’s a classic book on Catholic fatherhood that’s been around for years. A less obvious choice is Lessons from the Lives of the Saints, which is a book on personal holiness. I think most dads would appreciate the lessons in this book. Another great spirituality book – especially for our busy lives – is Keep it Simple. No time for elaborate devotions? This book gives practical advice (something we like at Living Catholicism) on growing closer to God. Finally, getting back to the father’s role in the family, I would recommend How to Raise Good Catholic Children. It’s an excellent book on raising your children to be faithful Catholics. Here are the images:
Work-appropriate gifts
Most fathers work, so a gift appropriate for the workplace is also important. My first suggestion is one I love: the small Holy Trinity Desk Icon (see below). It’s small, unobtrusive, and beautiful. Personally, I’m a big fan of icons. In some workplaces you can be more obvious about your faith, in which case I’d go with the 12 inch tall Fontanini Crucifix. The central truth of our faith is presented beautifully with this crucifix. No room on the wall, try the 10 inch tall crucifixion statue which can sit on your desk (beside the icon!). Personally, I think a crucifix in the office helps focus your life appropriately. Want to be a little more subtle? Try giving the traditional brown wool scapular. Made famous by the promises of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, this scapular is worn under a shirt as a personal reminder of our faith. Here’s the images:
Rosaries for Dad
Men demand a little different rosary than women – no “smells like roses" or “crystal" makes it to our wish list. Typically, we’re thinking black or brown (“mens" colors!) wood – perhaps onyx or an unusual stone if we’re feeling especially good. Here’s my thoughts. If dad doesn’t have a Rosary, it should be at the top of your list. I would start with a simple brown wood bead rosary for only $9.95. That one is actually made in Italy. If dad has a little Irish in him (don’t we all?), you could look at the Silver plated pewter Shamrock Irish Rosary for $29.95. It’s a unique rosary that you won’t see everyday. If you want something higher-end, there is a Black wood bead rosary with sterling silver crucifix and center for $49.95. Dad should be proud to show that one off. You can go even more pricey with the Sterling silver black onyx rosary at $99.95. It’s a beautiful rosary and has a lifetime guarantee (the other sterling silver does as well). Here are the images:
Hope this helps – I’m going to suggest my wife look at this page! God bless, Jay
Posted by jay at June 6, 2005 12:58 PM
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Comments
WELCOME TO OUR HOLY FATHER.
Dear Father/Sister,
Special greetings in the name of our Holy Mother Mary and her son Jesus Cthrist the saviour of the word who took away our sins on the cross of calvary that we may have eternal life.
I am Holy Father Frank Joseph of the ST.JAMES PARISH CATHOLIC CHURCH at one of the rural areas in Ghana.The main reason why I am writing to you this letter is that,since we are in the rural areas,we do not get the necessary materials such as Rosaries,scapulars and statues to worship with.
This have become a problem to the church and myself as a Father.
Also since we want to win souls for the catholic church,we want to maske sure that we teach them how to read the Rosaries and other activities which we do not have at our disposal.That is why we are counting on you to send us some.
Please, it is about time you help us before this problem becomes a cancerworm which might bestroy the vrery fabric of the church in this Village.
I end here with much greetings to your church and I am hoping to receive these things.Thank you.!!
Your's faithfully,
Holy Father Frank Joseph
St.James Parish Catholic Church
Posted by: Father Frank Joseph at September 2, 2005 12:11 PM
