Christian retailers are finding success in connecting Christian shoppers with the geographical and historical roots of their faith.

"My customers like hand-crafted items that are from Israel," said Grace Boss, whose Boundless Grace store in Tilton, N.H., features a special section spotlighting Holy Land products. "I have a four-shelf display case filled with olive wood products. I'm enthusiastic about the products."

Dozens of companies and distributors carry merchandise from the region where Jesus lived-Judaica (shofars, menorahs, torah scrolls and kippahs), Shabbat and holiday items (Chanukia, seder plates and Sabbath candlesticks), olive wood objects (nativities, ornaments, magnets and decorative boxes) and inspirational (water from the Jordan River, anointing oils and mustard seeds). One supplier even offers widow's mite pendants, derived from the story in the Gospels.

With many based in Israel, the distributors sell their wares online to consumers, and offer wholesale orders to Christian retailers in the U.S.

"We believe that selling products from Israel isn't just a business-for us or our wholesale customers," said Alex Barak, co-owner of JesusBoat.com, based at the Sea of Galilee. "We believe that selling products from the Holy Land is the intersection of faith and business. These are not just products. They are something that can give encouragement to our customers to grow in their faith and support of Israel."

Read the full report in the June 8 issue of Inspirational Gift Trends.

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