If you spot someone sharing a resemblance to Jesus Christ, it probably isn't the divine incarnation that you expect. In the state of Utah in USA, a fascinating business venture that is bathed in divine light, has come to light this holiday season. Models who resemble Jesus Christ are being hired for religious-themed photoshoots, says The Wall Street Journal. These pictures are used for wedding announcements to invite guests, framed portraits on walls and even photos posed blessing children. In the state which is religiously composed of approximately 73% Christians, as per data by Pew Research, the business model has seen quite a boom this year.
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"Jesus models", as they are being termed, are in demand for luscious long locks and a full facial mane to liken them to Jesus Christ, while a lean framed is an added plus. Their appearance is essential to bring authenticity when posing as the Son of God, with the addition of Christ's pristine robes and staff as their camera-facing attire. Most of the venture relies on the physical characteristics of the model and can be rewarding as the Messiah models can earn up to $200, which is approximately Rs 17,000, per hour.
Terry Holker is one such divine lookalike who works in Salt Lake City. The 50-year-old's resemblance to Jesus Christ was so convincing that, in the midst of a photoshoot in the Salt Flats, a woman approached him and asked if he could walk with her and hold her hand. Terry broke it to her that he wasn't the "real Jesus" but she said she'd been looking for a sign of the Lord while driving by and that's when she saw him.
Photo Credit: Lightfield Studios
This line-up of heavenly bodies may not be the real deal, but they've come close enough to make a career of it.
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