A New Bookshop Model?

CLC BLACKPOOL

Last year, the landlord of our UK bookshop in Blackpool informed us that he needed to sell the property where CLC has run the shop for the past 15 years. Shortly after the ‘For Sale’ sign went up, the Vicar of St. John’s Church, Rev. Steve Haskett, came into the shop and suggested that CLC might like to move into a room in their church. This location is only about 300 yards from where we were. It’s nearer to the main shops and directly opposite the Winter Gardens. The original Victorian church building has been extensively modernised, creating a more intimate worship area, meeting rooms, and offices. The church offered CLC a room just inside the front entrance, which was previously only used once or twice a week.

Rev. Steve “couldn’t be more delighted” to be working with CLC. He is looking at the collaboration as a partnership. He says “I knew the difficulties bookshops, both secular and Christian, face in staying on the High Street, but I want to keep a Christian presence here in the centre of Blackpool.” He had been looking for ways to bring more people into the building during the week and “working with CLC will be mutually beneficial in advancing the kingdom in central Blackpool.”

The church is considering other plans for the building, including a coffee area and toddler group. It sees this initiative as part of reaching outward into the town.

The opening took place on Saturday, February 2. There was a short service with worship led by Jamie Hill, CLC UK’s Commercial Director. Around 100 people were present to mark the special occasion as the Rt. Rev. Philip North, Bishop of Burnley, cut the ribbon to the shop entrance. The shop not only has its own main door but also entrances from the shop into the main worship area. Once everyone was inside the shop, the new venture was dedicated in prayer.

For CLC, the key to future ministry is experimentation, flexibility and partnership. CLC is nothing without the Church, and we are seeking to find creative ways to serve the Church. Neil Wardrope, CLC National Director, described the partnership as “pure joy.” This is a coming together of a shared vision to serve the local community.