little_tommy_62303

Posted: 6/20/03

Toombs' 'Little Tommy'
character headed to Texas camps

By Leann Callaway

Special to the Standard

Wearing red overalls and a yellow baseball hat, Tom Toombs looks like a big kid.

And he quickly lets anyone who cares know that he still is one–at heart.

It's all part of his unique way of captivating youth audiences as he shares messages of Christ's love.

Toombs' ministry and trademark “Little Tommy” character were created to provide “love, laughter and lessons.”

In 1976, Toombs began incorporating the arts of illusion, comedy, drama, mime, balloons and storytelling with the message of salvation. In 1985, Toombs felt called into a vocational ministry.

The innovative performer has accumulated many credits, ranging from performing at the Dollywood theme park to the Rebecca St. James national tour.

By engaging audiences in his performances, Toombs “speaks truth through the arts,” he said. And his routines are designed for all ages to enjoy.

“The laughter breaks down barriers, thus deep lessons can be learned while people are having fun,” he explained. “Drama is a powerful tool to reach people with the gospel. It leaves the audience with a vivid picture of what was being said.”

Toombs makes more than 250 appearances each year, including school assemblies, church services, camps, retreats and revivals.

Throughout the summer, Toombs will perform for Texas youth groups at Mount Lebanon Baptist Encampment. He also will participate in Super Summer at Hardin-Simmons University July 14-18.

During his first week at Mount Lebanon, Toombs performed for about 900 children attending preteen camp and said he was thrilled to see God moving in the lives of the children and youth.

“My favorite part of what I do is meeting the best people and seeing how God is working as I travel across the country,” he said.