“A gift that keeps on giving” has become a popular choice for Christmas presents – for adults and kids alike. From coffee subscriptions to monthly gift boxes, many gift givers delight in seeing their loved one receive a token of their affection throughout the year.
That’s why the release of Magnifier comes at just the right time. The newest in a long line of Magnificat publications, Magnifier is geared towards kids ages 7-12. But I have to admit, even my teenager was drawn in by the array of content and beautiful illustrations.
For under $30, parents, grandparents, or godparents can give a subscription for the upcoming year. Every other month, kids will receive an extensive magazine that will draw them into rich treasures of our Catholic heritage with stories, games, interviews, book reviews, crafts, and more. The first issue included a pull-out poster.
Here's a link to a variety of downloadable, printable cards for under the tree, saying you've purchased a subscription.
The magazines provide food for thought and opportunities for creativity – and, of course, a welcome break from screens.
A child might sit in an armchair and carefully go through each page, returning to his or her favorites several times. Or, if your children are like mine, they may flip through to see what activities appeal most to them. It’s a magazine kids will pass back and forth and go back to again and again.
Patron Cecilia Jean writes,
I just received the beautiful magazine! Oh my word, my husband and I are geeking out, thank you for sending. We both loved monthly magazine subscriptions growing up, and this brought us right back to that feeling. I'm so impressed on how well-done it is; really excited for Magnificat to launch this product and gain a whole new audience. It's like National Geographic Kids meets Catholicism! With so many young families trying to step away from digital entertainment consumption, I know this will be a hit.
In the beginning of the first issue, new readers are invited not only to learn about the theme of cathedrals, but to consider them with wonder. “This first issue will tell you all about the great adventure of cathedrals. These are such majestic places,” the introduction says.
Every cathedral is filled with the presence of God and the genius of people! From the Middle Ages to the present day, cathedrals fascinate and amaze; they captivate heart, mind, and senses and draw them to reverence and awe. Come and discover the secrets of their construction with the stonecutters, carpenters, and master glassmakers who have worked on them. Marvel at the stained-glass windows, portals, and pillars of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. Open the door, turn the pages, and let us carry you away in a whirlwind of color and majesty. Onward and upward!
Magnifier recognizes that parents know their kids best and offers them the opportunity to see the entire first issue online for free. You can check out everything it has to offer here.
The cathedral issue is just the beginning. Future issues will focus on mountains, bread, the First Christians, castles, the Three Wise Men, and so, so much more. It’s fun to think that a Christmas gift given now is something they’ll still be enjoying almost a year from now!
And while the first issue isn’t centered around Christmas, it nonetheless captures that irreplaceable sense of joy and wonder that is so unique to this season. You can invite the children in your life into the compelling beauty of our Catholic faith by sending a gift subscription of Magnifier here.
