I have just been reading The Friendship Factor by Brenda Poinsett (New Hope Publishers), one of several books I was given at The Gathering earlier this year, and have been reminded of something that I believe is key for church bookstores.

The book is subtitled "Why Women Need Other Women," but it occurred to me that it could as easily have been subtitled "Why Bookstore Leadership Needs Other Bookstore Leadership," because the points it makes are so applicable.

The first is that talking to others who understand or relate reduces stress and refreshes our spirit. I have been to all of the Church Bookstore Network's annual Gatherings, numerous regional meetings and always see this effect. Managers and workers come in stressed and tired-looking, but as they leave, I hear and see excitement, a more relaxed countenance and a rejuvenated spirit.

The second point is that connecting and talking with others helps us successfully navigate the wanted and unwanted changes that come along in life. In a church bookstore there is constant change-changing space in the church, changing inventory mix because of changes in staff, changing volunteer and paid bookstore staff, and more.

Sometimes the changes are welcomed, sometimes not. By being able to talk with others who have "been there, done that," we realize that we can actually get through it without having a meltdown.

Next is the recognition that talking and comparing notes will help us better understand and encourage each other as we go through the various stages of life. There is no doubt that the idea of sharing information and talking through similar problems is an asset for bookstore managers and workers. Just recently, at a meeting here in Houston, I saw this in action as 15 of our stores shared ideas with each other.

The point that probably most resonates with me is that we increase our power, creativity and joy when we work together. I have seen this proven time and again in the realm of church bookstores. Through our sheer numbers we have seen church bookstores more accepted in the Christian retail industry, our buying ability increase and even acceptance into the general wholesale marketplace.

Creativity and joy are two elements I see each year at The Gathering. I watch as in classes, at mealtimes and at break times, attendees get creative in solving problems, dreaming about what can be, and from that flows a joy that is absolutely contagious.

The final, overarching point is that we broaden and enhance our ability to experience God when we talk in His name. In all that we do through the Network, The Church Bookstore magazine and this newsletter, we seek to glorify God and to be instruments of His disseminating His Word in our part of the world.

At The Gathering and in our regional meetings, we hear stories from those who attend about how their lives have been spiritually uplifted and enriched because they are there.

This is my passion—to facilitate the encouragement, education and edification of those who are called to be a part of the church bookstore ministry.

Do you know of other church bookstores in your area? Make a few phone calls, and have coffee or lunch together. Share ideas, pray for each other—and leave all the richer for having been together.