Being Godfather to the children of two close friends, I consider myself blessed in that I have the opportunity to see and spend time with them.   As a young lad, my godparents lived (and continue to do so) on the East Coast, so naturally our visits were sporadic at best.  My godchildren, on the other hand, both live in my neck of the woods, which allows ample opportunity to bestow my wisdom upon them.

A Godparent’s duties are to act as sort of a spiritual role model, a reminder of God in their lives.  As a Godfather (and by the way don’t think I don’t love referring to myself as such-“Come say hello to your Godfather.”) I feel a certain obligation to play the role, to be that spiritual role model.  But how to incorporate it into the activities we share, which to date have mainly been sporting events as my son and my Godson recently played on the same Peanut league baseball team?

This got me to thinking. What is the universal constant about all kids sporting events?  Snack time.  After each game the children eagerly scan the sidelines, like a colony of prairie dogs, for the parent with the cooler.  God help the parent who forgets their snack day obligations.  They best have a healthy supply of Kleenex and in some case’s running shoes, as the bats have been known to be put to more creative uses.

Well, I think I’ve come up with a way not only to provide a tasty treat but one that also offers the opportunity of a spiritual reminder; Biblical Theme Snacks.  I think it’s a winner but then there are those that have openly questioned whether or not I have all my oars are in the water.  In any event here’s what I’ve come up with.

Gummy Disciples.  Not only a tasty treat but the kids will have a swell time trying to identify each of the 12, creating imaginary scenes of the Last Supper, and biting the head off of Judas.  Great fun.

Risen Lord Ice Cream Push Ups.  Enjoy as the Jesus shaped ice cream ascends towards the heavens

Confessional Trading Cards of all the mortal and not so mortal sins.  Be the first on your block to collect all 10 commandments.  Heck, collect ‘em all!

Homemade cookies in the shape of your favorite Bible characters.  Can YOU pick out Nicodemus?  Bet you can’t!

John the Baptist Sport Bottles.  Cool off your teammates after those hot summer games.

Garden of Eden candied apples.  Betcha can’t resist ‘em!

And for you health conscious parents, the Virgin Mary “Sin Free” Granola Snax.  Though I make no promises that the devout will not make a pilgrimage to the playing field.

As you can see, there are as many possibilities as there are patron saints, so grab your kids and join the fun.  And on the off chance that the proceeding column might be deemed blasphemous, I’ll be in the confessional.  Hey, I think I’ve got that card.