Store director appreciates being able to ‘help people live better lives’ in the community

A Memphis store serving the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) denomination sits in a prime location, about two blocks from Beale Street, the heart of the city’s famous blues music district. The Church of God in Christ Store benefits from its downtown setting, as  50% to 55% of the store’s walk-in traffic comes from tourists.

“Through the years, it has been so rewarding to be in an atmosphere, where you can help people live better lives and feel like you are doing good within the community,” said Sharon Miller, store director. “Every time there is a new convert, or you can remember the times when you sold a customer their first Bible, those are the things that have encouraged me to want to continue to good, not only within the church, but in the community.”

The store also has enjoyed many years of service from Sharon and her mother, Geraldine Miller. The two started working at the at the Main Street store on its opening day, Nov. 1, 1973. Geraldine also was involved in the store’s planning and development. Now 84, Geraldine retired from managing the store in 2000, and Sharon started at the store right out of high school.

 “When the store first opened, there was such an overwhelming response and my mom needed some help,” said Sharon about her start at store. “My mom influenced me so much in my life, not just in the business. She was such a spiritual-minded, stable woman. She always had a spiritual answer for everything, in the good times and bad. I admired that so much about her.”

Geraldine still visits the 1,800-square-foot store at least once a month. 

“She’s a customer now,” Sharon said. “I just sold her a Bible. Every time she comes in, I sell her something.”

Employing three full-time, one part-time and one seasonal staff member, the store mainly serves an urban market and averages about $1 million dollars in annual sales. It operates as a nonprofit under the Church of God In Christ, and funnels its proceeds back into the church to support various ministry endeavors.

Along with Sharon, the store’s staff—Ferrick Gale, Erin Johnson and Terrence Garner—said they look forward to continuing to serve the community in a faith-based atmosphere.