Who is this South Texas Santa? There’s a lot that could be said – but here’s just enough to stuff in your stocking: ‘Brother Rick’ Bartlett is a retired Pastor, having served with congregations in Oklahoma, New Mexico and Texas for the past 45 years. He has been a resident in the South Texas area for some 30 years. Though officially retired – he continues to serve the Lord and others by regularly teaching Sunday School, singing in church choir, and working part-time at a local funeral home.
During his years of ministry, he has donned the bright red suit on multiple occasions – delighting the hearts of others through local schools, businesses, etc. Beyond his duties in ministry and the occasional ‘Claus’ appearances, he has been very active in the communities in which he has served – taking-on various roles through drama presentations, volunteering at local food banks, serving as Police Chaplain and being called upon to officiate at weddings and numerous funeral services for many who do not have a church home or pastor. ‘Brother Rick’ loves to tease and play and seeks to ‘put a grin on every chin’ as much as possible. On certain occasions, he is able to make special appearances arriving in his 1959 “Red Sleigh” Thunderbird. It’s obvious that our South Texas Santa likes toys, too!