Make Christmas Ornaments and Give Them Away
Advent is a special time in the Catholic faith. It is a time of preparation and hope. During Advent, Catholics await the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a season filled with joy. Catholics are called to share this joy and bring light to others.
One way to do this is by making homemade Christmas ornaments. It can be a fun Advent activity. Making ornaments allows people to be creative. Each ornament becomes a symbol of faith and joy.
Giving these ornaments to others spreads love and warmth. It is a simple way to share the spirit of Christmas. Each gift brings a smile. It shows love and care during this season of giving.
This Advent, making and sharing homemade Christmas ornaments is a meaningful act. It helps prepare hearts for Jesus’ birth. It is a way to share joy with others.
The Spiritual Significance of Giving During Advent
Giving is important during Advent in the Catholic faith. It is a time to remember God’s greatest gift—Jesus Christ. As Christmas approaches, Catholics are called to be generous, just as God is generous.
During Advent, giving is more than giving things. It means sharing love, compassion, and hope. Making and sharing homemade Christmas ornaments is one way to do this. Each ornament spreads light and hope to others.
Advent candles show increasing light as Christmas nears. In the same way, each homemade ornament is a small light of joy. It carries a piece of faith. It reminds us of the hope that Christmas brings.
When people share these Christmas ornaments, they share more than decorations. They share the light of Christ and the hope of Advent. Each ornament becomes a sign of God’s love and the true meaning of Christmas.
Making and giving ornaments helps Catholics take part in Advent’s spiritual journey. It is a simple way to spread the joy of Christ’s birth. It brings joy to others and helps people feel closer to the true spirit of the season.
Choosing Recipients for Your Christmas Ornaments
When making Christmas ornaments, it is important to think about who will receive them. Focusing on people who need extra cheer, like elderly neighbors or shut-ins, can make a real difference.
First, consider people in the community who might need kindness during the holidays. Local nursing homes, senior centers, or community groups may have programs to connect volunteers with those who are lonely.
Friends, family, and neighbors might also know someone who could use a little extra holiday joy. They may have ideas or contacts for sharing a homemade Christmas ornament.
Giving during Advent is about more than the ornament itself. It is about the love and kindness that goes into making it. By choosing those who need joy and reaching out to them, Catholics can bring light to others this Christmas.
Biblical Lessons for Advent Giving
The act of giving during Advent reflects God’s love for humanity. The most important example of this love is found in the story of Jesus’ birth. God gave His only Son to the world to save us. This gift shows God’s deep love and mercy. By giving homemade Christmas ornaments, Catholics can reflect this love. It is a way to imitate God’s generosity.
Another important story is the visit of the Wise Men. The Wise Men brought gifts to Jesus, the newborn King. They traveled far to honor Him with their treasures. This story teaches that giving comes from a place of faith. The Wise Men’s gifts were symbols of their love for Christ. Similarly, the ornaments given during Advent are symbols of faith and love for others.
The story of the Good Samaritan also reminds Catholics of mercy and kindness. In this story, the Samaritan showed compassion to a stranger in need. He did not hesitate to help, even though it was difficult. In the same way, choosing to give to those who may be lonely during Advent is an act of compassion. It reflects the Good Samaritan’s spirit of mercy.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: “The charity of Christ is the source in us of all our merits before God” (CCC 2011). Giving during Advent is a way to show Christ’s love to others. It is a simple way to share the spirit of Christmas with those in need.
Nativity Scene Christmas Ornaments
To create Nativity Scene Christmas Ornaments, you will need craft sticks, glue, small pieces of fabric, and markers or paint. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a beautiful ornament that represents the birth of Jesus.
- First, arrange the craft sticks to form a stable shape. Use glue to secure the sticks together, creating a sturdy structure for your ornament. Make sure to leave an opening at the front of the stable to place the figures.
- Cut a piece of fabric to be the back of the stable. Glue it in place.
- Next, cut the fabric into shapes for Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus. You can use different colors of fabric to distinguish each figure. Glue these fabric pieces onto the stable back, positioning them inside the opening you created earlier. This will create a scene that depicts the Holy Family.
- Once the figures are in place, it’s time to add some personal touches. Use markers or paint to decorate the stable and the figures. You can add details like facial features, clothing patterns, or even a star above the stable to represent the Star of Bethlehem.
- Allow the ornament to dry completely before adding any hanging mechanism. You can attach a small loop of ribbon or string to the top of the ornament, making it ready to hang on your Christmas tree or give as a gift.
Creating a Nativity Scene Ornament is a meaningful way to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas and remember the story of Jesus’ birth. It serves as a reminder of the love and joy that this season brings.
Angel Christmas Ornaments
To create beautiful Angel Christmas Ornaments, you will need white paper or felt, gold pipe cleaners, beads, and ribbon. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a heavenly ornament that will add a touch of grace to your Christmas tree.
- First, cut the paper or felt into an angel shape. You can find angel templates online or create your own design. Make sure to cut out the wings, body, and head of the angel. This will serve as the base for your ornament.
- Next, take a gold pipe cleaner and shape it into a halo. Attach the halo to the top of the angel’s head using glue. This will give your angel a divine touch.
- Now it’s time to add some sparkle. Decorate the angel by gluing beads onto the wings and body. You can use different colors and sizes of beads to create a unique and eye-catching design. This will make your angel shine on the Christmas tree.
- Finally, attach a ribbon loop at the top of the angel for hanging. This will allow you to easily display your angel ornament on the tree or give it as a thoughtful gift to someone special.
Creating an Angel Ornament is a wonderful way to celebrate the Christmas season and honor the angels who brought the good news of Jesus’ birth. It serves as a reminder of the heavenly joy and peace that this time of year represents.
Star of Bethlehem Christmas Ornaments
To create stunning Star of Bethlehem Christmas Ornaments, you will need yellow cardstock or felt, glitter, ribbon, and glue. Follow these simple steps to make a beautiful ornament that will shine bright on your Christmas tree.
- Start by cutting the cardstock or felt into a star shape. You can find star templates online or create your own design. Make sure to cut out a symmetrical star with five points. This will serve as the base for your ornament.
- Next, apply glue all over the star and sprinkle glitter generously. The glitter will give your star a dazzling and sparkling effect, reminiscent of the guiding star that led the wise men to the birthplace of Jesus.
- Once the glue has dried and the glitter is set, attach a ribbon to one point of the star for hanging. Choose a ribbon color that complements the star and adds a festive touch to your ornament.
- Now your Star of Bethlehem Ornament is ready to be displayed on your Christmas tree or gifted to someone special. Its radiant presence will remind everyone of the significance of the star that marked the birth of Jesus, bringing hope and light to the world.
Create this enchanting ornament and let it be a symbol of the true meaning of Christmas, spreading joy and love during this special season.
Advent Wreath Christmas Ornaments
To create meaningful Advent Wreath Christmas Ornaments, gather green felt or construction paper, purple and pink ribbon, small beads or sequins, and glue. Follow these simple steps to make a beautiful ornament that symbolizes the anticipation and preparation for the birth of Jesus.
- Start by cutting the felt or paper into a wreath shape. You can use a template or create your own design. Ensure that the wreath is symmetrical and represents the circular nature of time and eternity.
- Next, decorate the wreath with small beads or sequins to resemble berries. These vibrant accents will add a touch of color and visual interest to your ornament, symbolizing the joy and abundance of the Advent season.
- Cut four purple ribbons and one pink ribbon to represent the Advent candles. Glue them onto the wreath, evenly spacing them around the circle. The purple candles symbolize the waiting and preparation, while the pink candle represents the joy and celebration of the third Sunday of Advent.
- Once the glue has dried, your Advent Wreath Ornament is ready to be displayed or gifted. Hang it on your Christmas tree or use it as a decorative piece in your home. Each time you see it, let it serve as a reminder to reflect on the true meaning of Advent and the anticipation of the birth of Jesus.
Create this heartfelt ornament and let it bring a sense of reverence and hope to your Christmas celebrations.
Prayer Scroll Christmas Ornaments
To create meaningful Prayer Scroll Christmas Ornaments, you will need small strips of paper, ribbon, and a fine-tip pen. This ornament allows you to incorporate a personal prayer, Bible verse, or inspirational message into your Christmas decorations. Follow these simple steps to make a beautiful and heartfelt ornament:
- Prepare the materials: Gather small strips of paper, ribbon, and a fine-tip pen. Choose a ribbon that complements the color scheme of your Christmas decorations.
- Write your message: Take one of the paper strips and write a short prayer, Bible verse, or inspirational message on it using the fine-tip pen. Choose words that hold special meaning for you or reflect the spirit of the holiday season.
- Roll the paper into a scroll: Carefully roll the paper strip into a scroll, making sure the message is visible. Secure the scroll by tying a small ribbon around it. This will keep the scroll intact and add a decorative touch.
- Add a hanging ribbon: Attach another piece of ribbon to the scroll, creating a loop for hanging. Make sure the ribbon is securely tied to the scroll, as this will be used to hang the ornament on your Christmas tree or other desired locations.
The Prayer Scroll Ornament serves as a reminder of the power of prayer and the importance of faith during the Christmas season. Hang it on your tree or give it as a thoughtful gift to inspire and uplift others.
Dove of Peace Christmas Ornaments
To create beautiful and symbolic Dove of Peace Christmas Ornaments, you will need white felt or paper, googly eyes, a feather, and ribbon. This ornament represents peace and harmony, making it a meaningful addition to your Christmas decorations. Follow these simple steps to make your own Dove of Peace Ornament:
- Prepare the materials: Gather white felt or paper, googly eyes, a feather, and ribbon. Choose a ribbon that complements the color scheme of your Christmas tree or decorations.
- Cut the dove shape: Using the white felt or paper, cut out the shape of a dove. You can find templates online or create your own design. The dove should have a rounded body and wings.
- Add the details: Glue a googly eye onto the dove’s head to give it a playful and whimsical look. Attach a feather to the back of the dove to represent its tail. This adds texture and dimension to the ornament.
- Attach a hanging ribbon: To hang the Dove of Peace Ornament, attach a ribbon to the top of the dove. Make sure it is securely fastened so that the ornament can be displayed without any issues.
The Dove of Peace Ornament serves as a reminder of the importance of peace and unity during the Christmas season. Hang it on your tree or give it as a thoughtful gift to spread the message of peace to others.
Stained Glass Window Christmas Ornaments
To create stunning Stained Glass Window Christmas Ornaments, you will need black cardstock, colored tissue paper, glue, scissors, and ribbon. This ornament is reminiscent of beautiful stained glass windows found in churches and adds a touch of elegance to your Christmas decor. Follow these simple steps to make your own Stained Glass Window Ornament:
- Prepare the materials: Gather black cardstock, colored tissue paper, glue, scissors, and ribbon. Choose tissue paper colors that complement your overall Christmas color scheme.
- Cut the frame shape: Using the black cardstock, cut out a frame shape resembling a church window. You can make it rectangular or arched, depending on your preference. Ensure that the frame is sturdy enough to hold the tissue paper pieces.
- Create the mosaic pattern: Cut the colored tissue paper into small pieces. Apply glue to the back of the frame and carefully place the tissue paper pieces in a mosaic pattern. Experiment with different colors and arrangements to achieve a vibrant stained glass effect.
- Add a hanging loop: Attach a ribbon loop to the top of the ornament for easy hanging. Make sure it is securely fastened so that the ornament can be displayed without any issues.
The Stained Glass Window Ornament will add a touch of beauty and sophistication to your Christmas tree or can be given as a thoughtful gift. Its colorful mosaic design captures the essence of stained glass windows, creating a festive and eye-catching decoration.
Christmas Bell Ornaments
Create charming Christmas Bell Ornaments with just a few simple materials. This ornament will add a festive touch to your Christmas tree and can also be given as a delightful gift. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own Christmas Bell Ornament.
Materials: Small terracotta pots, paint, ribbon, small bells.
- Paint the pots: Start by painting the small terracotta pots in festive colors. Choose colors that match your Christmas theme or go for traditional red and green. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
- Thread the ribbon: Once the paint is dry, thread a ribbon through the hole in the pot. Make sure the ribbon is long enough to hang the ornament. You can use a single color ribbon or mix and match different colors for a more playful look.
- Attach the bell: Take a small bell and thread it onto the ribbon from the inside of the pot. This will create a delightful jingling sound when the ornament is moved. Adjust the position of the bell to your liking.
- Tie the ribbon: Finally, tie a knot or bow at the top of the ribbon to secure the bell and complete the ornament. Make sure the knot is tight enough to hold the bell in place but still allows the ornament to hang freely.
Hang your Christmas Bell Ornament on your tree or give it as a thoughtful gift to spread holiday cheer. The jingling sound of the bell will add a joyful touch to your Christmas celebrations.
Holy Family Silhouette Christmas Ornaments
To create beautiful Holy Family Silhouette Christmas Ornaments, follow these simple step-by-step instructions. You will need black cardstock, gold or silver background paper, scissors, glue, and ribbon.
- Start by cutting out a silhouette of the Holy Family from the black cardstock. Take your time to ensure clean and precise cuts. Once you have the silhouette, glue it onto the gold or silver paper. Make sure to position it in the center and press down firmly to secure it in place.
- Next, carefully cut around the silhouette, leaving a small border of the gold or silver paper. This border will add a touch of elegance and highlight the silhouette of the Holy Family.
- Finally, attach a ribbon at the top of the ornament for hanging. Choose a ribbon color that complements the overall design and theme of your Christmas decorations. Make a small loop and secure it with glue or a knot to ensure the ribbon stays in place.
Hang your Holy Family Silhouette Ornament on your Christmas tree or give it as a meaningful gift to someone special. This ornament serves as a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of family during this festive season.
Resources
More Advent Ideas
In the spirit of Advent, creating and sharing homemade Christmas ornaments is a beautiful way to embody the season’s warmth and generosity. Each ornament, crafted with care and imbued with meaning, becomes a tangible expression of love and faith. See a treasure trove of activities that enrich this sacred time. From reflective Advent readings to engaging family activities, our page offers a variety of ways to deepen your spiritual journey and spread joy during this season of anticipation. Embrace the Advent spirit and discover new ways to prepare your heart and home for the celebration of Christ’s birth. See ideas for prayers, crafts, projects, and lesson plans here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best materials to use for homemade Christmas ornaments?
The best materials are often those you already have at home, like paper, felt, craft sticks, beads, ribbon, and fabric scraps. Using recycled materials can also add a unique touch.
How can I make my homemade Christmas ornaments durable?
Using sturdy materials like cardstock or felt can help. Additionally, you can coat paper Christmas ornaments with clear glue or a sealant for extra durability. Be mindful of the weight if they’re going to hang on a tree.
Can children participate in making these Christmas ornaments?
Absolutely! Many of these Christmas ornaments are kid-friendly, especially ones involving paper crafts or simple beading. It’s a great way for children to learn about the spirit of giving during Advent.
How can I package the Christmas ornaments for giving?
You can use small gift boxes, organza bags, or even handmade paper envelopes. Adding a personal note or a tag explaining the ornament’s significance makes it even more special.
Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of?
If the Christmas ornaments are for households with small children or pets, avoid small parts that could be choking hazards. Also, consider allergies – for instance, avoid using certain materials like nuts or wool if you’re unsure.
How can I make these Christmas ornaments meaningful?
Incorporate symbols of Advent or Christmas, like stars, angels, or nativity scenes. You can also include a prayer, Bible verse, or personal message that holds significance to the Advent season.
What if I’m not very crafty?
You don’t have to be an expert in crafts. Simple designs can be just as meaningful. There are also numerous tutorials available online for beginners.
How can I ensure my Christmas ornaments are eco-friendly?
Use recyclable or biodegradable materials where possible, and avoid plastic. Natural materials like wood, clay, or fabric are good choices.
Is it okay to make Christmas ornaments that aren’t explicitly religious?
While religious symbols can be more meaningful in the context of Advent, any ornament made with love and care can be a wonderful gift. The act of giving itself is in the spirit of the season.
What should I do if I don’t know the religious beliefs of the recipient?
If you’re unsure, opt for more general winter or festive themes, such as snowflakes or winter animals. These are universally appreciated and still convey the spirit of care and giving.
Christmas ornaments are a special part of the holiday season. They can be colorful decorations on a tree or small gifts given to others. These ornaments are meaningful because they represent love, joy, and the spirit of giving. In the Catholic faith, making and sharing these ornaments during Advent can be a way to spread God’s love.
Ornaments can be made from many materials. People often use simple supplies like paper, fabric, wood, or even recycled items. Each ornament can have a personal touch. They can include a special message, a favorite color, or a symbol of faith. The most important part is the care that goes into making them.
Giving homemade Christmas ornaments is a way to share joy with others. It can bring light to those who might feel lonely, like elderly neighbors or people in nursing homes. These small gifts remind people of God’s love during Advent. It is a simple yet meaningful act that reflects the true spirit of Christmas.
Your Turn
Make homemade ornaments this Advent! Spread joy to those who need it most. It’s a simple way to share love and kindness. Choose someone who may need extra cheer, and give them a gift made from the heart.
Share your own experiences of making and giving Christmas ornaments in the comments. You can also share photos of your creations in the Catholic Moms, Dads, Catechists, and Teachers Facebook group. Let’s encourage each other to bring light to others this Christmas!
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