One of the primary differences between independently owned bookstores and church—owned and operated stores is that the congregation's leadership—both lay and professional—often changes. 

With that can come new emphases in programming and ministry—prompting the kind of call I got recently from a store manager who had just been told that the new pastor did not see the bookstore fitting into the future of the church.

So what can church store managers do to protect and extend the ministry of the bookstore God has called them to oversee?

Listen. Communication among church staff can be a real stumbling block, despite all those meetings. Set a time with your pastor to hear his heart about the store. Occasionally ask if he would like to see any adjustments in the operation or content of the store. 

Share with a new pastor just how the store contributes to the ministry of the church, including some testimonies of how the store has affected the lives of customers.

Flex. If you have managed your store for several years, it's easy to become comfortable with your knowledge of how to operate the store, how to buy, how to merchandise. Be willing to change, not because you understand the why, but simply because that is what you have been asked to do.

Initiate. Keep your ears open for new products that may enhance the pastor's sermon series, the youth mission trip, the children's Sunday school topics. This means you need to be aware of what is on the calendar in the coming months.  

Learn. It's disturbing how many managers never see the actual financials once they turn the money in to their accounting offices. Ask if there is a report you might have at least once each month—even better, once each week—so that you might adjust your buying, hours and personnel.

Pray. For those who find themselves on shifting sand, remember to talk about the situation with the One who can do the most about it. The one thing that you don't want is to cause any sort of dissension or misunderstanding in your church family.

Geni Hulsey is president of the Church Bookstore Network.