Fifth Sunday of Pentecost
I Am A Shepherd, and I Take Care of Fig Trees
Amos 7: 17
Many observant Jews use the fig tree as a symbol of the Bible. Because figs ripen all year long, they are eaten a few at a time, just as the entire Bible is always there for us, but we read it only a few verses at a time.
In honor of the prophet Amos, let's make Amos's Fig Treats.
Grind 1/2 cup each of dried figs, dried apricots, pitted whole dates, pitted prunes, and walnut pieces together with the coarse blade of a food grinder. (You may want to do this at home.)
In class, stir in 1/4 cup shredded or angel flake coconut and a scant two tablespoons of honey (too much honey makes the mixture too sticky.)
Let the children roll walnut-size portions of the mixture into balls, and roll in granulated or powdered sugar if you like.
The treats are ready to eat out of hand, but you might want to provide small plates and plastic film so that the children can take them home.
If your grocer can find fresh figs for you, they are wonderful new experiences for many children. And for those who are terrified of new foods, there are always fig newtons.