The Precious Moments Chapel, also known as "America's Sistine Chapel", has over 9000 square feet of biblical artwork painted on the actual walls and ceiling of the Chapel. Many hand made stained glass windows with biblical messages created by Mr. Butcher adorn the exterior of the Chapel. Hand carved bronze plates depicting the old and new testaments greet you at the front of the Chapel as well as hand carved Philippine wood doors. The artist, Samuel J. Butcher, was inspired by Rome's Sistine Chapel and felt directed by the Lord to build the Chapel in Carthage, MO to share the promise of hope, love and inspiration. The Precious Moments Chapel brings hope and articulates a sense of divine purpose in the midst of the tragedy of losing a loved one. Inspired by the stories of children who lost their lives at a young, tender age, Hallelujah Square depicts children living on for eternity in Heaven.
The Samuel J. Butcher Museum has many items depicting Samuel J. Butcher's life, family, and artistic creations. He has shared his faith with thousands of people over the years and the Precious Moments Supporting Foundation, the owner and operator of the Chapel since January 1st, 2008, will continue to sustain and share the joy of the Chapel and Sam Butcher's legacy for many years to come.
The Visitor Center houses the World's largest Precious Moments Gift Shop as well as a year round Christmas Shop with many different brands to choose from. There is a snack shop and atrium filled with animated figurines and a running stream through a castle moat. When you start your journey from the Visitor Center to the Chapel, you will walk through beautiful gardens and see statues and fountains created by Mr. Butcher. Soft music plays along your walk and you may see a deer run across the fields in the distance. In front of the Chapel, a new Precious Moments Chapel Memorial Brick Program has begun on the Chapel Plaza. Anyone can purchase a memory brick that will be part of the Chapel for years to come. You will be able to view Grandpa's Island with a castle built for Mr. Butcher's grandchildren. There is also resurrection cave, an actual cave with a Precious Moments figure depicting the resurrection of Christ.
Events at the Precious Moments Chapel
The Precious Moments Family Reunion will be held from June 18th thru June 21st, 2009.
