For many people who are members of a local parish and attend Mass regularly, the Christmas holiday is also a time for remembering their Pastor or resident priest. While a number of folks present homemade gifts, such as baked goods, just as many offer gifts that they’ve purchased on one of their many Christmas shopping expeditions. Though it can be challenging to choose an appropriate gift for such a person, you need to keep in mind that they enjoy the same things that you do. Being a priest doesn’t invalidate their humanness. Here are some suggestions that you may wish to consider when shopping for the leader of your parish.
If, at some point during your association with his church, you’ve heard him mention the name of his patron saint, this information can be used as the theme for his Christmas gift. A good book or wall decoration depicting the saint would be appreciated, and the knowledge that you remembered his special patron will exhibit thoughtfulness on your part.
Since all rectories have libraries of books that are necessary tools of the priest, consider the gift of bookends. These can be of a religious theme or simply something tasteful that doesn’t reflect his vocation in any way. He’ll surely have a need for these – if not in the actual library, then perhaps in his room or office.
Make (or purchase) a shadowbox that’s relevant to either his life in the priesthood or particular hobbies and interests. The determining factor here will be how well you know him and how comfortable you feel socializing with him. For instance, if your family invites him to dinner in your home on a regular basis, then your social relationship is well established and a more personal shadowbox theme would then be appropriate.
Arrange for a Mass to be celebrated in another parish for his intention and for that of his immediate family members, such as parents and siblings. Present the Mass Card to him in a tastefully decorated box or gift bag. This will be a very meaningful gift that will be most appreciated – especially since you’ve gone the extra mile to include his family members.
Folks who have a background in sewing, such as a tailor or seamstress, can make new vestments for the celebration of Mass. There are specific vestments that are designated for particular times of the year – or occasions – that priests need to purchase in order to fulfill their duties within the church. By presenting him with a new set of vestments, you’re not only giving to him and to the church, but are also providing him with some economic relief.
What if the Pastor happens to be related to you, or has been a close member of the family for a number of years? In such situations, families have been known to buy a vacation package for him so that he can enjoy a bit of traveling during his time off. One family that I’m acquainted with once gave their parish priest a month-long trip to the Holy Land. This is above the limits of most people’s budget, perhaps, but makes a special gift when the association is close and draws on many years of friendship, or is within your family circle.
If he’s a sports fan or a patron of the arts, give him a pair of tickets to attend an event that’s taking place in the area. By including the second ticket, he has the option of being accompanied by a friend or family member – or even another priest with whom he’s associated in some way. Just like the rest of us, they need a break in their routine and enjoy getting away to a favorite activity every now and then. They also look forward to spending time with a friend when the opportunity presents itself.
Not to diminish the idea of home baking, this is a popular and much appreciated gift that parishioners have been giving to priests for many years. Who wouldn’t love a gift box or basket that’s been filled with delightful melt-in-your-mouth treats, direct from someone’s oven? Choose a recipe that he particularly likes, or an old family recipe from your own collection, and bundle it up in brightly colored Christmas paper with decorative ribbons. Believe me, he’ll appreciate it!
When in doubt, check with other priests that may live in the same rectory, or with one of the other parishioners to determine the appropriateness of a gift. As long as it’s in good taste and is a representation of your particular association with him, your gift-giving idea will be a success.
