Christian Bookshops in Wales

Advantages of a local Christian bookshop

Ordering online may be cheaper or even more convenient, but perhaps you haven't considered the valuable contribution of a retail Christian bookshop in an otherwise spiritually dark community.

• It's a visual reminder of invisible Gospel realities. Even irreligious people can sometimes be powerfully influenced by the presence of a small business enterprise committed to loving them unconditionally, whether they buy anything or not. A local Christian bookshop says, "We have a very special message to proclaim through literature, music, video, cards, and gifts.
• It can be a "safe place" for those who are hurting and marginalised by the rest of society. We find it amazing the number of people who frequent our little bookshop that fit into this category: the homeless, the poor, those with mental health issues, the grieving, the elderly, the lonely, the stranger, the foreigner, and those seeking answers to life's deepest questions. They feel safe with us, like a ship finds safety in the calm waters of the harbor.
• It gives committed Christians a platform in the marketplace and economy of a local community. While it may doubtless be economically insignificant and weak compared to Tesco or Boots or Currys, it gives believers a voice among fellow merchants and business associates. We have contact with the town/county councils, bankers, newspaper editors, solicitors, sales reps, and a host of other business leaders simply by virtue of our existence as a going concern in the town centre.
• It encourages biblical Christians to pursue their relationship with Jesus Christ through a variety of practical resources for discipleship. Who couldn't give testimony to the influence of Christian literature and audio/video materials to their walk with the Lord? What better place to browse these resources than a cozy Christian bookshop?
• It opens up incredible opportunities to share the Gospel with those who enter the premises of a Christian bookshop. Talk about an open invitation! People who don't know Jesus Christ frequently come into our bookshop and ask for a Bible or gift for a niece or nephew who is getting baptised or confirmed. A young man who follows the teachings of Buddha comes into the shop several times a week asking questions about Christian doctrine. A bookshop can be "neutral ground" for non-Christians to explore Christianity, either through a verbal exchange with bookshop staff or by purchasing materials that answer their questions.