Gift Suggestions for Priests
Priests take vows of poverty, but it doesn't mean they don't like or cannot accept gifts. In fact, since they receive a small stipend for necessities, a gift from a parishioner is a priest's source for something considered extravagant by his tastes. Stay away from anything glitzy or glamorous; unless you know a priest extremely well, don't spend more than $100.
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Fun
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Many priests live communally, and some might imagine a setting of peace and tranquility with discussions of scripture every night. But many times they are simply men hanging out, watching some TV or reading the latest thriller. Mix it up for your priest: Think classic board games such as Trivial Pursuit, Yahtzee or Scrabble that can bring enjoyment to two or many more players. Priests live modestly and don't have a lot of clutter as a group; give your priest a board game or two, and he'll appreciate it.
Relaxation
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Your priest will appreciate a subscription to rental DVDs or streaming movies during those long nights when nothing is on TV (and they usually don't get premium channels). A classic or new movie provides more than entertainment; it's a way to banish the boredom and relax and escape. Don't rule out these rental services just because they offer movies with a rating of R or higher; priests are most definitely in charge of their own choices, and you don't need to censor or concern yourself with them.
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Rememberances
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If your priest performed your wedding ceremony or baptisms in your family, framed photos of these events can make truly lovely gifts. Just check to ensure the priest is indeed in the photo. He might love to remember your occasion, but his place in it is also important. If a man does good deeds and performs such wonderful spiritual ceremonies, he will enjoy some remembrances of those occurrences and display them with pride.
Food, Drink and Other Indulgences
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Yes, priests eat and drink and, in many cases, smoke. A good bottle of Scotch might just be the one thing he wishes he had --- or perhaps a box of cigars. He would never purchase these items for himself. The church will likely not disallow it unless he belongs to an order that forbids it, and you would know that fact by knowing your parish. If you yourself frown on alcohol or smoking, food glorious food is always welcome --- particularly homemade. Cookies, cakes and big pans of pasta go a long way toward a happy priest. Always give him extra bounty to share.
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References
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