In short: As a godfather or godmother, the best thing to give for First Holy Communion is something that lasts and creates a link with you: a cross for the bedroom, a blessed necklace or a guardian angel picture, plus a few personal lines. The price is secondary; there is no fixed sum.
What is expected of godparents?
At the christening, godparents promised to accompany the child on their journey of faith. First Holy Communion is a first big step on this journey. That is why godparents often give something with a religious connection. But that is a tradition, not an obligation. Many godparents choose something completely different that is close to the child’s heart. What matters is that your gift comes from you and expresses time, not just money.
Gifts that suit godparents
A cross for their own room
Many children receive their first cross of their own for Communion. You can take care of that:
- Olive wood cross 30 cm (€39.90) as a calm wall cross from Bethlehem.
- Olive wood standing cross 18.5 cm with base (€29.90) for the bedside table.
- Olive wood tau cross 15 cm, blessed (€29.90).
Something to wear
A child wears a necklace every day, and the cross is close to them all the time. The blessed olive wood necklaces are popular, for example the cross necklace with dove (€9.90) or the necklace with figure of Christ (€11.90). Looking for something of higher quality? Then take a look at the cross necklace in 925 sterling silver (€39.90).
A guardian angel for the nursery
The guardian angel is a classic among godparents because it recalls the christening. For example the guardian angel wall picture in a wooden frame (from €19.90) or the guardian angel picture in a gold frame (from €19.90). Both are blessed.
A small set
Instead of a single expensive piece you can combine: a cross to hang up, a necklace and a card. Together that comes to about €40 to €60, and the child has several things that remind them of you. Goes well with it: the holding cross (€13.90) for the trouser pocket.
How much do godparents spend?
There is no binding sum. What is appropriate depends on region, family and your budget. If in doubt, have a quick word with the parents so that nobody feels under pressure. A gift costing €10 with a personal letter can mean more than an expensive one without a greeting.
Making the gift personal
A gift becomes personal through small gestures:
- A Bible verse or blessing wish on the card, put in your own words.
- A memory of the christening. Tell in two sentences how you experienced the day.
- The name saint. Does the child have a saint whose name they bear? A short text about them makes the gift unique.
- A promise for everyday life, such as an afternoon together that you give to the child.
You will find suggestions for your own words in the article Sayings and good wishes for First Holy Communion.
Agree with the parents
Ask the parents what the child already has and whether there is a wish. That way you avoid duplicates. Also clarify when the gift will be handed over: after Mass, at the party or separately. Plan ordering and delivery in good time before the date, too, because in the peak season many people order at once. Shipping goes via Amazon's logistics network – free within Germany, €5.90 to Austria and France; Italy €6.90, Spain €6.90.
What about grandparents, aunts and uncles?
Grandparents often give something with sentimental value, for example a cross with a handwritten dedication. Aunts and uncles often choose the smaller gifts up to €20. You will find an overview by budget in the guide What to give for First Holy Communion: 25 ideas and in our First Holy Communion gifts collection.
What does “blessed” mean with us?
A Catholic priest from the Diocese of Fulda blesses many items in our warehouse; a certificate with the date is enclosed. The blessing is a sign and not a promise. If you wish, you can also have a gift blessed in your parish.
And after the celebration?
The gift is the beginning, not the end. Many godparents arrange an outing with their godchild after Communion, write on their name day or send a card for their birthday. That keeps the connection alive, and the cross in the bedroom recalls a person who is there.
When godparents give together
Sometimes the godfather and godmother or several relatives join forces. That is practical if a larger piece is wanted, such as a wall cross with a guardian angel picture as a set. Agree on a sum beforehand and on a joint greeting for the card, and the gift will feel complete and nobody gives the same thing twice. A joint gift can be personal too: everyone writes two lines to go with it.
Frequently asked questions
What do you give as a godparent for First Holy Communion?
Something lasting with a personal connection: a cross, a necklace or a guardian angel picture, plus a card in your own words.
Do I have to give something for Communion as a godparent?
There is no obligation, but it is customary for godparents to mark the day with a gift. Time is also a gift.
How much should a godparent spend?
There is no fixed sum. What counts is your budget and what suits the child.
What do you give a boy and what a girl as a godparent?
A cross suits both. Girls often like delicate necklaces or angel motifs, boys plain tau crosses or a holding cross. Ask the parents.
What if I am a godmother but no longer have much contact?
Then Communion is a good occasion to get in touch. A simple gift with a personal letter often opens the door better than something expensive.
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