Advent is meant to prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming—but in a season filled with wish lists and shopping carts, it’s easy to lose sight of the real joy of Christmas: giving.
That’s where The Giving Manger tradition comes in.
Each day during Advent, every time someone in the family does a small act of kindness—a chore without being asked, a kind word, a secret good deed—they place a piece of straw in a little wooden manger.
Day by day, as these hidden acts of love multiply, the manger fills up—until Christmas morning, when the family places the Baby Jesus on the soft bed they’ve prepared for Him with their good works.
It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that every act of love prepares a place for Christ—not only in the manger, but in our hearts.
This family tradition teaches children that kindness, sacrifice, and service are gifts we can offer to others and to Jesus Himself. And as the straw pile grows, so does the spirit of love in your home.
Bring the Joy of Giving Home This Advent
Start a new tradition with The Giving Manger Gift Set
— a beautiful, hands-on way to help your family live the true meaning of Christmas.
This complete set includes a heartwarming storybook, wooden manger, bundle of straw, and baby Jesus figure—everything you need to fill Advent with faith and love.
Each act of kindness becomes a prayer, and every straw a symbol of love offered to the Savior.
Make this Advent one your family will never forget.
Order The Giving Manger Gift Set today from The Catholic Company.
