Christian and Jewish Gifts

• Christian homeowners might surround themselves with decorative items that are a reflection of their faith. Framed prayers and photos of Jesus bring peace to a home and remind the recipient of her faith on a daily basis. Garden ornaments offer the same comfort outdoors and are especially useful for people who enjoy praying in their garden. Stepping stones and wind-chimes add spirituality to outdoor spaces.
  
  Many Jewish gifts are intended for use during traditional religious ceremonies. These include Seder plates and serving dishes, Menorahs, Mezuzahs, wedding Ketubahs, Shabbat candles and Kiddush cups. Other Jewish gifts include wall art and home décor, children's toys, books and jewelry.
  
  

Catholic Gifts

• Christians who are devoutly Catholic might appreciate the gift of a crucifix, which serves as a reminder of the resurrection and the comfort and peace that come from the teachings of Jesus. A rosary is a string of beads with symbolic meaning. Catholics use the beads as a guide while reciting prayers and are comforted by the ritual known as "praying the rosary." Religious relics are historical items with a connection to a saint, apostle or person revered by the Catholic Church. Though the items are sometimes associated with acts of God or miracles, they are not considered magical. The Catholic Church does not condone the sale of relics, but encourages families to pass the items on to loved ones as heirloom gifts.
  
  

Eastern Religious Gifts

• Eastern religions popular in India and Eastern Asia include Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, Buddhism and East Asian Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism and Shinto. Islam is the largest religion in the Middle Eastern region of Asia and North Africa. Two-dimensional art and sculpture are popular in eastern religions. Gift givers can choose from statues of Buddha, Ganesha or Foo Dogs made of plaster, wood, ceramic or crystal. Other popular eastern religious gift items include prayer beads, prayer mats or carpets, incense, books, movies and wall-hangings.
  
  

Religious Pilgrimage

• If you are looking to share the surprise of a lifetime with a friend or loved one, give her the gift of a religious pilgrimage. The two of you can travel together to locations that have special meaning for Christians, Hindus, Muslims, Jews or other religions. Shrines in the United States include the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC, the Jewish Museum of Maryland in Baltimore, the Hsi Lai Temple in Los Angeles, the Museum at Eldridge Street Synagogue in New York City or the Bahha'i House of Worship in Chicago. There are a number of international pilgrimage destinations, as well.