“The rosary is the weapon of these times.” – St. Padre Pio

Men,

Over the past few years, a big trend on social media is the “EDC”. Which is short for Everyday Carry. Large communities exist on reddit and instagram. Well lined up pictures of the essentials men carry on their person every single day. I personally follow many accounts displaying their EDCs on my social media. The coolest community to follow is this subreddit for EDC

Usually these pictures depict much of the same thing. A cool wallet, maybe a small flashlight, field notes, watches, earbuds, a pocket knife, etc. As a catholic man, I took notice to just how many of these photos lacked a catholic element to them. Hence the reason for this article.

So what exactly does a Catholic man’s everyday carry look like? Below is a list of 10 things every catholic man should carry on his person.

Catholic ID Card

In Case of a medical emergency, you not only are going to need a medical doctor. To be frank, you never know what moment will be your last. It is always best to be prepared for last rites.

You can get these cards from Catholic ID which also has a spanish option. This ID card should be in every catholic man’s wallet.

A Rosary

A Rosary is another non negotiable every day carry for the catholic man. They come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and materials for a custom look. Popular trends for men include “combat” rosaries and paracord ones. Catholic Manhood’s personal recommendation is to get one from the following sites. The “all- terrain” rosary is a must because you should take it with you wherever you go.

Rugged Rosaries – a quality brand with quality rosaries so you can take your pick and be certain that one from their store is meant for extensive use.

They also have an awesome collection of compact rosaries that you can clip on your keychain or belt loop.

Roman Catholic Gear– This store is recommended for a solid gunmetal war rosary, but they sell different types of medals

Both of these sites sell rosary pouches and canisters for easy carry. There are also hundreds of options on Amazon for more customization. Like this black leather pouch

Pocket Knife

You can’t go wrong with a swiss army knife, but Catholic Manhood’s personal recommendation for a solid, well made, razor sharp knife (tactical or otherwise) is the Benchmade brand. Check out the website here

Their prices are high, but remember you get what you pay for. That being said, the whole purpose of any pocket or tactical knife is to cut things. Again, there are thousands of options at Amazon. The one below is only $12 from Smith & Wesson. Peep it here

Devotional Medal (or crucifix)

Let us keep in mind that no matter what specific devotion you are talking about, or practicing, Jesus Christ is central to everything we do. A devotion to a particular saint, for example, does not take the place of or even equal our love of and devotion to Jesus Christ and the Holy Trinity. Rather, it is more like having a mentor in the faith who can help you to know and understand things, pray for you, and help you when appropriate. We should keep in mind that all things should point us to Jesus, and the saints and angels, especially Mary the Mother of Jesus, want only to help us grow closer to Him.

Having a devotional medal can help remind you in prayer or throughout the day. Carry one in your pocket, in your wallet, around your neck or on your keychain.

St. Benedict Medal

Crucifix Medal

Patron Saint Medal

Scapular

St. Michael Pendant (Rugged Rosaries)

Prayer Book or Compact Bible

A prayer book. Something that you can carry around on your person or in your bag at all times. In my bookbag, I carry the book of Christian Prayer with me. It contains the liturgy of hours. Due to my schedule, I am able to make time for the LoH which is why personally, this book, filled with office of readings, a liturgical calendar, psalms, canticles and scripture readings is the best fit for me. But we recognize that not everyone has time for that. Find a book, if not the Holy Bible (Douay Rheims Version), that fits your life, but keep in mind that it is always a good time to turn your attention to God, read the scriptures and recite the psalms. I also carry a compact Catholic Bible in my bag consisting of the new testament and psalms. Below is a short list of awesome, compact prayer books that can help you on your journey towards Christ, even on the go. (links included)

The decision is, of course, yours, but pick one that fits best with your daily routine. Remember, you always have your phone for supplement in this area and the larger things you can keep at home. It doesn’t need to be flashy, it just needs to help in your prayer life at whatever step or devotion you are at during this point in time.

Journal and Pen

A piece of paper and pen will never steer you wrong. In our modern times, this CAN be an optional carry, but it is highly recommended for a couple of reasons. You never know when you are going to need to write something down. YES you probably have a smartphone, but the use of this can get you out of the habit of using it so much. Any pen and memo pad will do of course, but fieldnotesbrand.com has some awesome customizable options.

Stay strapped or get clapped

As your life permits, you should always carry something to defend yourself and those around you with. A handgun, easily concealed should be worn wherever possible. As a man it is your duty to provide and protect and this everyday carry for every Catholic man should not be negotiable. Carry this with caution and responsibility. There is never a “good” time to use this, but, unfortunately there can be a necessary time. Also keep in mind that with great firepower comes great responsibility. Proper etiquette and training must be involved.

A solid Catholic Everyday Carry should help you stay prepared, both temporally and spiritually. No matter where you go, God comes with you, therefore so should prayer.

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam