I used to struggle every year at Christmas with the problem of finding gifts for people. It can be a real struggle to find something the recipient will like, need, or welcome. My parents have down-sized to a tiny retirement apartment, and don’t want anything. Other people have very particular tastes in books or music and are a challenge to buy for. Don’t even get me started about the dangers of buying clothing….
A few years ago I stumbled upon the ultimate solution. Monasteries, convents, seminaries, and other religious communities often support themselves by selling gifts such as homemade soap, candy, jellies, candles, pottery, and notecards. Some even sell beer and wine! A jar of home made blueberry jam or rose-scented soap is a wonderful and inexpensive gift, at the same time you are helping support a religious community. Who wouldn’t like some homemade candy or preserves?
There is a website that serves as a clearinghouse for many religious orders. You can do a little online at Monastery Greetings here.