Wade and Jennifer Burleigh have been traveling the country for 17 years presenting the gospel of Jesus Christ in a unique manner.

Just as Jesus taught with parables and stories the Burleighs teach with live demonstration and drama.

The couple visually transport you back in time to biblical days with first century dress and demonstrations of ancient crafts including pottery, sculpting, finger-painting, dramatic storytelling and music.

Burleigh is a multi-talented seasoned master craftsman who obviously enjoys his work and interacting with those he comes in contact.

His woodcarving, pottery and art visually bring the scripture and storytelling of his wife Jennifer to life.

Jennifer is a fluent storyteller and brings insights into drama and scripture that both entertain, inform and invite pause and contemplation.

During the Christmas season this first century craftsman is transported into a different world as one of Macy’s lead Santas.

Through the months of November and December Burleigh travels the country in Santa’s own unique trailer bringing cheer to children of all ages and a word of encouragement to those in need. You may have even seen him on the Macy’s float during the annual parade. Burleigh’s kindly face and manner invite confidence and states he gets many requests from children ranging from expensive toys to mending broken families.

He is able to assure them of God’s love and pray with those who are hurting.

Throughout the year Burleigh’s resemblance to the bearded philanthropist is recognized by children everywhere who gaze in wonder at what Santa does in the off-season.

This is not their first visit JDC and so Burleigh filled up on his favorite local cuisine of fish and banana pudding at the Country Fisherman and enjoyed the food at Williams Old Time Restaurant.

After a visit to the area in 2013 the couple was on their way to Louisiana when in Clinton a vehicle lost control, crossed the interstate median and smashed into them crushing their vehicle and severely injuring Jennifer’s left foot.

The injury required several surgeries and lengthy recuperation time. This is their first tour of engagements since that accident.

The Burleighs gave their unique presentations at Whitesand Baptist Church and Lamar County Private School.

If you did not get a chance to see this couple at work First Century Ministries will be featured at Dublin Baptist Church May 18th.

You can contact the Burleighs at www.firstcenturyministries.org. or 254-760-2357 for more information on this unique ministry.