Religion: More Blessed to Give

What does one give a bishop for Christmas? Or a Presbyterian seminarian? Or a nun? The advertising pages of denominational publications are full of suggestions. In this world of black and white, too, eyes are peeled for bargains (“Close-Out—BLACK SUITS—Only 52 Available”), and alert to style (“Nuns’ Stylish Handbags—Outside Zipper Pocket—$7.84”).

There is a notable trend this year toward ecclesiastical do-it-yourself. “Save up to 50%,” J. Theodore Cuthbertson Inc. urges readers of Episcopal and Presbyterian magazines, “on Finest Quality Church Vestments with Ready-to-Sew Cut-Out Kits.” Hopkins Co. offers Episcopalians a “Once-a-Year Opportunity—only 159 Poplin Knockabout Cassocks Reduced to $12,” and Cox Sons & Vining advertises a “Utility Anglican Cassock” for $22.50. Priests would presumably be relieved to receive NOWILTEX clerical collars that “never need laundering,” while those with large parishes would appreciate a “SACRA-KIT,” the “portable sick-call set for dignity and convenience in administering at the bedside” and equipped with removable crucifix, candle holders, candles, linen cloth, holy-water bottle, and SPECIAL ABLUTION CUP ($28.75). A chrome-finish confessional counter (“numbers 1 to 9,999 turn noiselessly”) can be had for $4-50.

“AN IDEAL GIFT FOR YOUR RECTOR” is

McGraw-Hill’s New Techniques for Church Fund Raising, complete with “Canvass Kit.” Luxury item is Gretzinger World Tours’ suggestion to “SEND YOUR

PASTOR TO THE HOLY LAND IN ’56.” But perhaps the most understanding present of all is offered by Pageant Press, Inc.: “YOUR BOOK PUBLISHED . . . Send manuscript for free report.”