By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Bookstore aspires to be community resource center
bizTop Christian Book Store
Members of the Hinesville Chamber of Commerce helped Temple of Praise members cut the ribbon on Top Christian Bookstore on April 3. People at the ceremony included, Chamber Board members Sharron Hayes, Leah Poole, Maryann Wilson and Charlene Parlett, Downtown Development Authority Board member and County Commissioner Donald Lovette; store co-manager Verjuana Underwood, Temple of Praise Pastor Kevin Betton Sr., Sgt. Kevin Betton Jr., co-manager Allie Woods; church Administrator Sherletta Beverly and Chamber Board Member Susan McCorkle. - photo by Photo provided / Coastal Courier
With the astronomical increase in gasoline prices in recent months, driving to Savannah is becoming a luxury.  People often drive to Savannah because locally certain items are not available.
However, for those who love to browse in a bookstore, be it Lifeway Christian Bookstore or Barnes and Nobles, you can now do it right here in Hinesville. TOP Christian Bookstore had its grand opening on  April 12.  Owned and operated by Temple of Praise Ministries, the bookstore is an outreach of the ministry.  
This upscale bookstore offers a selection of  books.  With a Barnes and Nobles flair, shoppers can bring their laptop and connect to the wireless internet.  There is plenty of space (even for the children to play), and shoppers are offered complimentary coffee and pastry.
"Our vision for the bookstore is to meet the spiritual needs of the faith based community," Dr. Kevin L Betton, pastor of Temple of Praise, said.
The store carries books by well-known authors such a Bishop T. D. Jakes, Joyce Meyers, Creflo Dollar, Bishop Noel Jones, Benny Hinn, Smith Wiggleworth, and many others.  Books dealing with varied subjects such as marriage, love, being single, business and finances, politics,  devotions, Bible dictionaries, and Bible commentaries are available.  There is also a section of books written by local authors.    
Other items to choose from include CDs by various gospel artists, gift baskets, handkerchiefs and hand towels, religious magazines and cards for special occasions.   The bookstore is also has Murphy robes and cleric collars.  
"We are also taking donation from the community for our 'gently-used' section.  These are books that have been read, but are in good condition. They are offered at a discounted price," store manager Verjuana Underwood said.
There is also space in the back.
"We are looking to rent it out as a meeting place for a book club or conference room," Betton said. "We plan to get a large-screen, plasma television and a portable stage and use it on Friday and Saturday nights for musicals.  Married couples can come and be serenaded," Betton said.
"The bookstore is an extension of  Temple of Praise,  and we want to supply a need to many," he said. We want the community to embrace the vision.  It is a place to meet a friend and come and relax, he said.
The store is at 406B S. Main St., next to Poole's Deli, in Hinesville.  It's open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
 "We want to serve as a resource center for the faith based community in Liberty County and the surrounding communities," Underwood said. 
Sign up for our e-newsletters