From STAFF REPORTS
March 4, 2006

You have probably noticed a lot of activity on the first floor of St. Leo’s Hall over the last few months. Shelves have been rearranged, walls have gone up, and many have wondered what they would find when those doors finally opened up. Well, the wait is over. The Catholic Shoppe, the college’s new Catholic bookstore, is now open for business.

Saturday, February 25th saw the grand opening of the Catholic Shoppe. The store was blessed by Abbot Placid in an early afternoon ceremony.

Those who walk into the store for the first time should be impressed by the store’s look. The sound of hymns playing also helps create a soothing atmosphere. The store carries a wide selection of books and gifts, including rosaries, statues, medals, crosses, crucifixes, and prayer cards. They also carry music CDs, audio books, and DVDs.

Scottie Gallagher, manager of the Catholic Shoppe, says that the store is “open to anyone interested in learning more about the Catholic faith.” She adds, however, that several items the store carries -- such as the religious artwork -- should be of interest as well to those of other faiths as well.

The Shoppe’s hours will be Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (except for Tuesdays when the store will remain open until 6 p.m.) and Saturdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (And, yes, the doors on both sides will be open.)

For more information, stop by the store or contact the Catholic Shoppe at 704-461-5100 or catholicshoppe@bac.edu. Those who are interested can also visit the Catholic Shoppe page on the college’s website, which includes a link to the online store as well.