Revelation Centre in Norwich closes down 

Revelation Christian Resource Centre in Norwich city centre has closed for good, with the last day of trading on September 28.

A ‘farewell party’ was held during the afternoon and around 60 people dropped in to enjoy refreshments and to make final purchases in the shop. Revelation, formerly known as the ‘Norwich Christian Resource Centre’ had been located at St Michael at Plea church since 2008.

The trustees made the decision to close the centre as the lease was due to expire and the centre could no longer afford the rent and running costs.
 
Margaret Smith, Chair of Trustees, said: “It goes without saying that we have done this with heavy hearts and in the knowledge of the impact it will make on so many people who regularly come to this special place. This decision was not made lightly, but the change in shopping habits, the empty shops on the high street, the increasing use of online shopping, and the general cost of living, have taken their toll on this Christian centre. We cannot afford the rent or the running costs of this beautiful building, and it is only fair to our staff, supporters and volunteers that we have acted in this way.
 
“Various alternative avenues have been considered but no openings have been found. And the future becomes more and more uncertain for the younger generation. The trends suggest card sales, book sales and church supplies will all decrease with the effect of high postage costs, e-books and dwindling church attendance in many denominations.
 
“But – we end positively! God has blessed us in so many ways over the years – wonderful conversations with people in the café, faithful staff who have gone way beyond their terms of employment, volunteers who have  given so generously of their time and experience … and so many answers to our prayers.
 
Margaret adds: “We would like to thank you so much for the way people of all faiths – and none - have supported our ministry – whether by generous giving, faithful prayer or by your presence in the shop and café. Whilst I am so saddened that this light for the gospel will be extinguished, my prayer is that God will raise up new ways in which we can bring the gospel message of love and hope to the people of Norwich and beyond.”

Pictured: some of the people gathered at the 'farewell' event for Revelation