Christmas gifts for a godchild are about more than the gift itself. A godparent has promised to help a child grow in faith, and Christmas is a natural time to give something that says so. Whether your godchild is a baby or a teenager, this guide gathers faith gifts for every age, from small keepsakes under $50 to cross and dove pendants, with advice on what to choose by age and budget, all original designs by Marina, designed in the Holy Land.
What Makes a Good Christmas Gift for a Godchild?
In the Catholic Church, a godparent is a believer who is able and willing to help the newly baptized person live the Christian life (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1255). Many other Christians take on the same role in their own way. A gift that fits it is something the child can keep, wear or pray with, and that points to the faith rather than away from it.
That is why a cross, a dove or a rosary works so well. It is small, it lasts, and it is still meaningful when the child is grown. The words of Proverbs are a good thought to write in the card:
"Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)
Christmas Gifts for a Godchild Under $50
You do not need to spend a lot for a gift that lasts. These four are among our most affordable, and each comes with a clear Christian meaning.
Jerusalem Cross Pendant in Olive Wood
$30
A flat olive wood Jerusalem Cross with four round holes through the center, on a brown cord.
Blue Ichthys Cross Pendant in Olive Wood
$35
A blue fish mounted over the center of an olive wood cross, on a brown cord.
Pearl Bead Rosary in Keepsake Jar
$25
Cream pearl beads with a Jerusalem Cross medallion and a crucifix, in a small keepsake jar.
White Bead Rosary with Chalice Bead
$25
White beads with a chalice-shaped centerpiece bead and a crucifix.
Cross and Dove Pendants
The dove is one of the gentlest Christian symbols, and a good fit for a child. It recalls the baptism of Jesus, when, as Matthew writes, "he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him" (Matthew 3:16, NIV). For a godchild, it is a quiet link to their own baptism.
$75
A polished silver dove at the crossing of a cross with a rough, bark-like texture.
$89
A cross lined with small beaded dots, with a hammered-texture dove laid over the center.
Eilat Stone Cross & Dove Pendant
$110
A silver dove at the center of a cross inlaid with blue-green Eilat Stone along its arms.
Shop Baptism, Communion and Confirmation gifts
For a First Communion or Confirmation Year
If your godchild is preparing for First Communion or Confirmation, Christmas is a good moment to give the first piece they will wear for it. The First Communion Chalice Cross Pendant ($180) sets a gold-plated chalice at the crossing of a polished silver cross, with "IHS" engraved above it. For a smaller gift, the White Bead Rosary with Chalice Bead ($25) above carries the same chalice.
How to Choose by Age
For a baby or toddler. Choose a keepsake the parents can keep for the child, such as the Pearl Bead Rosary in its keepsake jar ($25). It can wait on a shelf until the child is ready to use it.
For a school-age child. A light pendant on a cord is easy to wear, like the Jerusalem Cross Pendant in Olive Wood ($30) or the Blue Ichthys Cross Pendant ($35). Parents know best when a child is ready to wear jewelry, so it helps to ask them first.
For a teen. A sterling silver pendant has more weight and will last for years. The Cross with Dove Pendant ($75) and the 3D Layered Jerusalem Cross Pendant ($79) are both easy to wear every day. Choose the chain length with our necklace size chart.
Add a Note
The best godchild gift comes with a few handwritten lines. Tell your godchild why you chose it, and that you are praying for them. Years later, the note can mean as much as the gift. For more ideas for the whole list, see our Catholic Christmas gift guide.
Christmas Gifts for a Godchild by Budget
Under $50
- Pearl Bead Rosary with Jerusalem Cross Medallion in Keepsake Jar ($25)
- White Bead Rosary with Communion Chalice Bead and Crucifix ($25)
- Jerusalem Cross Pendant Necklace in Olive Wood ($30)
- Blue Ichthys Latin Cross Pendant Necklace in Olive Wood ($35)
$50 to $150
- Cross with Dove Pendant Necklace ($75)
- 3D Layered Jerusalem Cross Pendant Necklace ($79)
- Dove and Beaded Cross Pendant Necklace ($89)
- Eilat Stone Cross & Dove Pendant Necklace ($110)
$150 and up
Christmas Gifts for a Godchild FAQ
What is a good Christmas gift for a godchild?
Choose something small and lasting that points to the faith: a cross or dove pendant, a rosary, or a keepsake for a younger child. Add a handwritten note, and it becomes more than a present.
How much should a godparent spend on a Christmas gift?
There is no fixed rule. A meaningful gift can cost $25 to $50, and a sterling silver piece between $75 and $110 suits an older child or a milestone year.
Is a cross necklace a good gift for a godchild?
Yes. A cross is simple, it grows with the child, and it suits Christians of many traditions. For a younger child, ask the parents first, or choose a keepsake such as a rosary.
When should I order to receive my gift before Christmas?
Delivery usually takes about 10 days. To receive your order before Christmas, we recommend ordering by Thursday, December 10.
