If you’re a loyal reader of my blog, you’ll know I have an almost unhealthy obsession with the Oriental Trading Company catalog (check the archives for past blog posts).  Now, don’t get me wrong, the Oriental Trading Company provides a wonderful array of cheap tchotchkes and doo-dads for any school, church or social organization, but it’s the religious offerings that never fail to fascinate me.  Each year, the creative minds at OTC come up with a new line of weird and wonderful products designed to keep kids interested in their personal faith walks.  From toys to stickers to crafts, this catalog has it all, and their spring catalog always features unusual offerings for the Easter season.  While nothing compares to the original “pop-up Jesus” (which got me started on it all), this year’s assortment does not fail to impress.  Here’s a sample of this year’s line-up:

“He is Risen” Toy-Filled Easter Eggs

Which came first, the chicken or the egg?  Why, don’t be silly – the correct answer is our Lord and Savior, of course.  These eggs open up to reveal a tiny two-inch Jesus toy inside.  Nothing shouts Easter morning fun louder than your own personal, pocket-sized, smiling Son of God.  Is it just me, or aren’t we stretching the third commandment here just a tad.

Chocolate Crosses

Wow, I’m not even a Catholic and these make me uncomfortable.  I’m fine with biting the head off of a chocolate bunny or chick, but eating a cross?  Man, I’ve got mixed feelings here.  Can I dip them in peanut butter?  Is that wrong?

“Jesus on a Donkey” Pull-Back Craft Kit

How long did it take Jesus to ride through Jerusalem on Palm Sunday?  Well, not long at all, if this craft had anything to say about it.  The back legs of the donkey are equipped with wheels, so you just pull it back, let it go, and watch as Jesus and his faithful companion speed off across your tabletop or floor.  He must be a king ‘cause he’s riding on silver rims, bro.  I hear if the donkey hits 88 miles per hour it can even go back in time.

“He Lives” Finger Puppets

They offered this set a few years ago, but not as fancy.  Jesus, the centurion, an angel, and two disciples (I’ll let you pick which two) are all back.  The new additions and exclusive to this set?  Three ladies – all who take the form of plastic finger puppets.  I guess that means we have Mary, Mary Magdalene, and new for 2020 – “Jeanine”, Mary and Joseph’s annoying neighbor, who’s dog always pooped on the stone steps and who constantly ratted out Jesus to the Pharisees for healing people on the Sabbath.  Hours of fun!

“Jesus Lives” Wind-Up Craft Kit

Wind him up and he walks towards you with outstretched arms and the stilted gait of a possessed zombie.  If he said “braiiiiiiiiins”, most kids would scream and run into the other room.  Even your housecat will be pissed off with this one.  Happy nightmares, everyone!

You can find these and many other unique finds in this year’s catalog, or visit them yourself at www.orientaltrading.com.