Christmas Box Angel Children’s Memorial set for Dec. 11

Date: 12/6/2011

GREATER SPRINGFIELD — The 10th annual Candlelight Vigil to honor the memory of deceased children will take place at The Christmas Box Angel Children’s Memorial in John Bator Park, Williston Ave., Easthampton on Dec. 11 at 7 p.m.

The Angel Statue came about through the efforts of Nance and Bob MacDonald of Westhampton along with fundraising carried out by area bereaved parents. The Pascommuck Conservation Trust provide the land for the statue which was dedicated in September, 2001. The statue is based upon the book, “The Christmas Box” by Richard Paul Evans.

Each year, beginning in 2001, on the second Sunday of December, bereaved parents have gathered to light candles in memory of their children and, if they wish, to say a few words about their children. Those attending are requested to bring a candle. The vigil is co-sponsored by The Springfield Chapter of The Compassionate Friends.

Following the vigil, all attendees are invited to a reception at The Easthampton Congregational Church. Enter through the rear door, across from Big E’s Supermarket. Parking is in the church parking lot on the right as you face the church. Anyone wishing to bring simple snacks/finger food to share may do so. However, that is not a requirement. Anyone who has experienced the death of a child, or children is welcome regardless of the child’s age, circumstances of his/her death, or how long ago the event took place. For more info, call 527-5473 or 527-7353.