Graces and Blessings Gift Shop was born from a journey of faith, perseverance, and a deep love for the Catholic Church. My name is Lynn, and I am a Catholic convert. Unlike many, I wasn’t raised in the faith—in fact, I grew up in a home that didn’t acknowledge God at all. My only childhood experiences of church were as a bridesmaid. My father was Catholic, but he was absent from my life until I was in my twenties. Yet, by the grace of God, after five years of my prayers, he returned to Confession and Mass.
My journey to Catholicism was anything but ordinary. From a young age, I always believed in God, even without being taught about Him. I faced many struggles, including health challenges, multiple pregnancy losses, and the heartbreak of being told I’d never have children naturally. But through it all, I prayed. I clung to hope. I kept a Rosary over my bed, gifted to me by my mother from Rome when I was just 15 years old.
Against all odds, I conceived naturally and became a mother to my beautiful children. As my faith deepened, I found myself drawn to Catholicism in ways I couldn’t explain. One night, I woke to the sound of Gregorian chants—a sound I had never heard before but that resonated deeply within me. I knew then that God was calling me home. In 2012, at the age of 33, I was baptized and confirmed into the Catholic Church, taking Maria as my Confirmation name.
Despite the trials I’ve faced—loss, single motherhood, and personal hardships—my faith has never wavered. It has only grown stronger. I’ve entrusted myself to the care of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph, seeking their guidance and intercession.
Three years ago, I prayed to St. Joseph for a job and was blessed with a position I loved. But in 2023, I was made redundant. Still, I trust in God’s plan for me. While seeking employment, I felt a deep calling to use my talents in a different way—to create and share beautiful, handcrafted Catholic goods that inspire faith and devotion. This is how Graces and Blessings Gift Shop came to be.
Each Rosary, each handcrafted piece, is made with prayer and love, reflecting the grace and blessings I’ve received in my own faith journey. Through my Instagram page, where I have been blessed to connect with over 61,000 fellow Catholics, I’ve been able to share my faith, my struggles, and my joys. Now, through this shop, I hope to bring others closer to God by providing meaningful, faith-filled gifts that serve as reminders of His endless love and mercy.
Thank you for supporting Graces and Blessings Gift Shop. May the Lord bless you abundantly, and may Our Lady always guide you closer to her Son.
With love and prayers,
Lynn
