Samuel Butcher, the creator of Precious Moments, is a man with a big heart, a ready smile, and many talents. All who have seen his art and read his words of inspiration know that he is someone very special indeed. As successful as Sam is, he is still a humble spirit, full of steadfast faith and great love for all the people he has influenced with his artwork.
Sam's own life has been filled with tough times and good times, happy celebrations and deep sorrows. These human, very familiar moments have guided him in his creation of Precious Moments.
Sam's early years were not easy ones. From the beginning Sam felt separate from his family. He was not interested in motorcycles and cars like his father and brothers. Sam preferred to spend his time drawing and writing stories. Sam had decided at an early age that he wanted to be an artist but his father opposed the decision.
Sam found support elsewhere though; one of the most influential people in his early life was his high school teacher, Rex Moravec. "He was a talented man who had the unique ability to bring out the best in his students." Said Sam.
As a young man Sam met Rev. Royal Blue who encouraged Sam to walk with the Lord. Since that time, Sam's heart has been filled with joy knowing "He Leadeth Me."
Sam began his ministry in child evangelism with his "Chalk Talks" and illustrations on Christian record covers and books at the Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It was here that he met Bill Biel.
In the beginning, Sam only intended for his drawings of teardrop-eyed children to encourage and comfort family and friends. He simply called them "Precious Moments" because they spread endearing messages of love, caring and sharing.
Bill and Sam worked at CEF before deciding to go out on their own in 1974 and form the Jonathan & David inspirational greeting card business that featured the teardrop-eyed children he had been drawing for family and friends
In 1981, Sam and Bill were led to the Philippines, where they had their dolls made and where they expanded their Christian ministry. They gave financial assistance to young Bible School students. The first two dolls produced were the Jesus Loves me boy and girl.
The Jonathan & David Company moved to a larger facility. The two angels on a cloud easily identified it; Love Goes On Forever, over the front door.
