History

The Christmas Box Angel Statue was introduced to the world in the book The Christmas Box, a worldwide bestseller and hit television movie by author Richard Paul Evans. In the book, a woman mourns the loss of her child at the base of an angel monument. Though the story is mostly fiction, the angel monument once existed but is speculated to have been destroyed. The new angel statue was commissioned by Richard Paul Evans, in response to reports that grieving parents were seeking out the angel as a place to grieve and heal. The monument was dedicated on December 6, 1994 -corresponding with the date of the child’s death in The Christmas Box.

Coincidentally, Dec. 6th is celebrated in many parts of the world as Children’s Day.

At the request of Sexton Paul Byron and Salt Lake City Mayor Deedee Corradini, Salt Lake City donated the land on which the monument stands. The sculpture is the creation of a father and son from Salt Lake City, Utah, Ortho and Jared Fairbanks, and modeled according to the description in Evans’ book. The face of the angel is that of Evans’ second daughter, Allyson-Danica. If you look closely you can find on the angel’s right wing (west) the word “hope.” Flowers, sent from around the world, adorn the base of the monument year round, accompanying notes left by parents for their “little angels.” On December 6th of each year (7 p.m. MST) a candlelight healing ceremony is held at the base of the Christmas Box Angel monument. After a few remarks, a moment of silence, and the lullaby of a children’s choir, the attendees are invited to leave a white flower at the base of the angel statue. The public is welcome. 

Image for the map to the Salt Lake City Angel Statue

Angel Statues Throughout the World

In addition to the angel in the Salt Lake City cemetery, there are Christmas Box Angels in more than 120 other areas (including Canada and Japan!) erected by great people just like you. 

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Erecting an Angel in Your Area

The price of an Angel statue is $18,000 which includes delivery fees. Be assured that all fees have been carefully negotiated to ensure the highest quality and lowest price and that Richard Paul Evans, Inc and The Christmas Box House International receive no profit from these monuments. The above amount does not include the cost of the Angel’s base. You may contact your local monument company for a customized foundation. Our experience has shown that the price will range from $3,000 to $6,000.

Note: All costs are subject to change.

The Angel is 4’ 3″ tall and has a wingspan of 5’ 2″. The diameter of its base is 22″.

The Angel is 1/2″ thick bronze from her feet up and is mostly hollow. There are metal grommets on the bottom of the angel so it can be secured to a pedestal of your choice. It is best to use stainless steel rebar when attaching the angel to the base.

In addition to raising money for the Angel’s base, you will need to be mindful of all land costs. To date, all communities have had the land donated. Also, you will be responsible for the cost of the inscription on the Angel’s base.

With the approval of Richard Paul Evans, Inc., you may say whatever you would like on the monument. However, you must include somewhere on the base that this is The Christmas Box Angel and that December 6th marks the annual gathering for people who have lost a child.

No. However, you may get one if you would like. We recommend that you work with a local organization that is already set up to accept donations. Also, check with your local bank and ask what they recommend.

No, only if you feel more comfortable doing so.

Yes, as long as you do not resell the copies for profit.

Lisa Johnson is the Angel representative with The Christmas Box International in Salt Lake City. She may be reached at (801) 201-1991 or [email protected]. Before an order can be placed, you must have acquired 50% of the total cost. The balance is due before shipping.

It takes three months, depending on the foundry’s workload.

We encourage you to join others throughout the United States who host a candlelight ceremony at The Christmas Box Angel Monument on December 6th, at 7:00 p.m. The vigil is a public gathering for anyone who has lost a loved one. You will find more information pertaining to the vigil in the Angel folder.

If you have additional questions or would like to find out how to help, contact Lisa Johnson at: [email protected] or call 801-201-1991.

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