Baptism Gifts That Inspire Faith and Love

In the Catholic faith, the three sacraments of initiation (baptism, first communion, and confirmation) allow a person to fully enter into the life of the Church.

A catechumen is an individual who is receiving instruction in the principles of the Christian faith in preparation for baptism and full initiation into the Church. 

Originally, a catechumen received all three sacraments at the same time, and they were presided over by the local bishop. However, as the church grew, it became impossible bishops to be available for every baptism. Over time, priests were given the ability to preside over the three sacraments. Although, it is customary for the local bishop to still preside over the sacrament of confirmation.

Adult catechumens who are converting to the faith still receive all three sacraments at the same time, at the Easter Vigil Mass.

However, infants in the Roman Catholic Church usually receive baptism shortly after they are born, and then the other two sacraments years later. 

Baptism is a person's entrance into the Church. Coming from the Greek word for 'immersed,' baptism cleans the catechumen's soul of original sin through immersion in water - an outward sign that effects a cleansing inward grace, given by God. Now cleansed of original sin, the catechumen may enter the Church, reborn as a son or daughter of God and accepting Jesus Christ as Savior.

10 Catholic Baptism Gift Ideas

In the Catholic faith, baptism is the first sacrament of initiation and marks a person’s entrance into the Church. It cleanses the soul of original sin through the outward sign of water, signifying spiritual rebirth as a child of God. 

When it's time for your little one to enter the Church, you want to make sure to celebrate with a baptism gift that will help nourish his or her faith from the very beginning. This list includes some of the most popular, as well as unique, baptism gift ideas that will be a keepsake of that special day for years to come.

1. Crib Medal

Crib medals are a long-standing Catholic tradition, symbolizing the parents' prayers for protection of their little one. Though many have the classic figure of a guardian angel guiding two children, crib medals come in all styles and colors for both boys and girls.

2. Baptismal Cross

A baptismal cross can be your child's introduction to the greatest sign of Jesus' love for us, as well as a wonderful keepsake of their baptism day.

3. Children's Bible

Give the gift of a Bible to celebrate a baptism! With so many to choose from, a children's Bible is the perfect way to introduce kids to the stories of the Old and New Testament. Some Bibles are made specifically as a baptism gift, with certificate pages to record information about that special day. Others are illustrated with truly beautiful pictures, and still others come in board book style so they can withstand the toddler years. No matter the version, a children's Bible is an accessible way for kids to learn about salvation history.

4. Rosary

The most popular of Catholic devotions, rosaries are a beautiful gift at any age and come in all sorts of materials, from precious stones to silicone! Whether you want to give a one safe for gnawing on while teething or one of heirloom quality for the child to cherish for a lifetime, a rosary is the perfect baptism gift to help instill a love for Our Lady as well as Our Lord.

5. Baptism Picture Frame

A beautiful frame to be hung on the wall or set on a dresser can be a wonderful way to remember a child's entrance into the Church for years to come!

6. Baby Book

A baby book is a wonderful way for parents to record memories throughout their child's early years. A religious baby book is a unique gift, as it will allow the parents to highlight not only their child's first steps and words, but also their milestones in the Church, such as their baptism, first reconciliation, and first holy communion.

7. Jewelry

For the little baby girl getting baptized, consider buying her first dainty piece of Catholic jewelry. A crucifix or miraculous medal on a necklace or bracelet will profess her new faith to the world!

8. Baby Blanket or Stuffed Toy

A Catholic themed blanket or stuffed toy is the perfect reminder of God's love for a new baby to snuggle up with! Noah's Ark stuffed toys are a perennial hit, and there is a whole array of plush toys and blankets depicting the saints and religious virtues that would make a great baptism gift.

9. Holy Water Fonts and Bottles

Holy water fonts and bottles make excellent baptism gifts. These beautifully crafted items serve as meaningful reminders of the cleansing and renewal bestowed through the sacrament of baptism.

10. Mass Activities

Mass activity products are wonderful tools to help children engage meaningfully during Catholic Mass. These items feature colorful illustrations and simple explanations to teach young children about the structure and significance of the Mass.

Baptism Gifts for Boys and Girls

No matter which item you choose, the best baptism gifts are those that reflect the beauty of the sacrament and help guide a child in the Catholic faith. Whether you're looking for baptism gifts for boys or for girls, this list of Catholic Baptism gift ideas offers meaningful keepsakes that inspire love, faith, and devotion from the very beginning. Don’t forget your present in a special baptism gift bag and card, and don't forget the card!