New book store opens

Adelle Ellis
Times Reporter

 

It started out as an online store last October but now it has a location in Strathmore: the Olive Branch Christian Bookstore opened its doors to the public for the first time on Feb. 4 in the Leary Centre.
Owner Grace Dewan hopes her Christian bookstore will help Strathmore, Calgary and the surrounding communities to be inspired by faith and to come together.
By noon on grand opening day there had already been around 30 people stopping in to see the new store; the first 20 customers also received a 20 per cent discount off their purchase.
“It’s not just about selling books, bibles and products, it’s about reaching out to others and sharing the gospel,” said Dewan.
The store boasts a variety of books, including bibles and Christian living books by popular pastors such as Creflo Dollar, Joyce Meyer and Joseph Prince. There are books on healing, children’s books, notebooks, knickknacks and inspirational art.
“The books on healing can be helpful because sometimes it helps reading other books to get inspiration when you are looking for something in the bible and maybe not understanding it, but you can find the answers in other books to help guide you,” said Dewan.
The store includes a relaxation area with several soft chairs and a television.
“It’s not just about the books, it’s about gathering as well. We have an area if anyone wants to come and gather here. We are also here to pray for others so if anyone wants prayer we can get together here,” said Dewan.
Eventually Dewan hopes to do prayer-related activities such as healing prayer services. They are also considering creating a bible study group for women, and a mom and young children reading group that will get together once a week to read, talk and gather for coffee.
“I think it’s incredible to have a bookstore, and especially a Christian bookstore in Strathmore. It’s a great resource and it will thrive in this community,” said Abbie McCullough, who offered to lend a hand to set up the store after hearing about their opening. “There are a lot of churches here and a lot of Christian members in this community, and I believe that there will be good support for this store.”
Store hours are Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.