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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday December 14, 2007 - 37 Discover the warm, inviting atmosphere at Good Books, The non-denominational Christian bookstore Good Books is as much a retail endeavour as it is a vocation for owners Jack and Shirley Kiervin, and Bob and Mary Catherine Acheson. The foursome bought the ailing shop that was tucked away in a tiny mall in the west end of the town, in 1991. It was immediately moved to downtown Oakville, 114 Thomas St., to increase its presence. "We felt this store was needed in Oakville, to service the church and faith community," said Shirley. She had no retail managing experience before buying the shop, nor did her husband Jack who works in the financial sector. But a degree in English literature and part-time job at the university bookstore made Shirley a prime candidate for the book business. Books and faith are an important part of the couples' lives. For the first few years the learning curve for the new owners was straight up but it was fascinating learning about the publishing world. "The store is a success from the point of view that it provides service to the community. It's an investment in its spiritual well-being, body and soul," said Shirley. The non-denominational Christian bookstore, which also sells gifts, music, and videos, also draws people from Milton, Hamilton, Georgetown and Toronto. "I want anyone from any church or with a spiritual interest searching for meaning in life to come in to Good Books and feel comfortable here," said manager Mary Chester. In fact, customers often comment on the inviting, warm atmosphere emanating from the staff at the store. This Saturday (Dec. 15) Arthur Paul Boers, an associate professor of pastoral theology turned author, will be at Good Books between 1:30 and 3:30 p.m., to sign his book The Way is Made by Walking: A Pilgrimage Along the Camino de Santiago. The St. Catharines native walked the 800miles Camino de Santiago in Spain two years ago. "Walking is a spiritual discipline and the Camino is a place that presses urgent questions for us about the pace of our lives these days and our longing for a different way of life, for a more balanced life," Boers writes. Christmas Special % 15 OFF November 30th to December 23rd (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) Strolling carollers, double decker shuttle bus, festive horse-drawn holiday wagon rides with Santa and world class shopping! All In-Store Merchandise Valid until December 24, 2007 Today, Tomorrow and Sunday 15% OFF Any Juicy Couture or Denim Purchase Lady Sofia boutique 166 LAKESHORE RD. E., OAKVILLE 905.337.3155 www.silkeborg.ca Fine Lingerie & Swimwear 341 Lakeshore Road East www.lsofia.com · 905.845.9818