Chris Kinyon & Celia Pawlak
If you met Celia Pawlak and her mom, Chris Kinyon, at the show, you would not forget them. Their excitement was contagious. Celia retired from a position as an insurance adjustor and decided to work part time in a local Christian store called Amen in Marysville, WA. She immediately knew that God was calling her to serve in this store. Amen had been open for over 60 years but had not been updated and needed a fresh face. After a week of work, Celia asked if the owner would consider selling the shop. He advised her to wait for six months and come back, thinking she was just overly excited. Celia knew by then that God had plans for her family at this location. So today, after about a year and a half, they have officially reopened under the name of Well Loved Pages. With a total renovation— new paint, new fixtures, new products— her town is loving having a new place to gather! Celia shared that they have exceeded sales goals, and the Chamber of Commerce is also planning to use her space to meet.
Common threads? It’ s the story of God’ s grace and leading, opening the doors wide to offer a place to gather. To offer a place for meeting and for finding peace.
God is still at work, opening new doors
I wish I could share with you all of the stories that I heard in that room! We had one hour allotted, and by the time everyone had shared“ their story,” I had less than half an hour left to present the thoughts I had prepared. But I would not have changed a thing. This industry veteran was reminded that God is still at work, opening new doors. What a breath of sweet promise and a vision from God for the future of Christian retailing! CRA
14 CRA today / www. christianretailassociation. org