Weird Christmas Gift Question
 

As several people on here know, this semester, especially the last week or so has been really hard for me when one of my housemates passed away from meningitis. One of the priests at my school has really been helpful to all of us, and came to her funeral and everything. I want to get him a thank you/Christmas gift for everything that he's done for us, but I'm Jewish so I don't know what to get him. What are possible suggestions for gifts to give a priest? The whole renouncing earthly possessions makes things difficult.

I'm so sorry about your loss. It's so sad.

If you want to get the priest a gift, I think a scarf or gloves would be appropriate. I know my priest loves movies so many of the parishioners give him DVDs, but you would need to find out if he has a DVD player. My priest also receives many books as gifts.

Books are never a bad idea - and you could always get him a B&N giftcard so he could go pick out things that he's been interested in. Cream's idea of a scarf and gloves isn't bad either. I think he would also really appreciate it if you wrote a heartfelt card about how much he has helped you - a lot of times people really take the aid of clergy for granted.

That's actually really thoughtful of you; as far as the gift...

A scarf and gloves are a great idea. Peaches is right, priests get a whole lot of books for presents, so this would be something more thoughtful.

Honestly, I think the card would be the best part for him; as GP said, not enough people really show their appreciation to clergy for some of the wonderful things they do.

You could also find out what charities he strongly supports (like St. Vincent de Paul) and make a donation in his name.

Not all priests "renouce worldly possesions"...only certain orders. And if it's a Catholic priest, you can't go wrong with a rosary (those Y necklace looking things with the beads and the cross at the bottom). I know many catholics that have several rosaries, because they each have a significance.

I was thinking that a gift card to a restaurant would also be good - I usually go for the Darden cards, as they're good at Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Bahama Breezes, and Smoky Bonz.

I think it's lovely that you're even doing something - most people seem to think it's just part of their job!

That is so thoughtful of you. Most priests actually do not take a vow of poverty. I am sure any gift would be appreciated. If by any chance you like to cook or bake, that could be a personal and inexpensive gesture.