Subject: As Seasons Change - Gratitude for an Incredible Journey
Dear valued customers, partners, and friends,
It is with mixed emotions that I write this to announce the sale of our local beloved Brighton Christian bookstore and gift shop. After much prayer, consideration, and soul-searching, I have made the decision to embark on a new chapter in my life, and I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for being a part of this incredible journey and fill you in on what’s next.
First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to our loyal customers. Your unwavering support, encouragement, and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our success. It has been an absolute privilege to serve you over these last few years, providing a wide range of Christian literature, spiritual resources, and unique gifts that have touched lives and strengthened faith. Your patronage and the meaningful connections we have formed will forever hold a special place in my heart.
I also want to express my sincere gratitude to our suppliers, artisans, and partners who have collaborated with us to bring exceptional products and services to our customers. Your creativity, craftsmanship, and shared values have been instrumental in shaping our store's identity and creating a diverse selection that reflects God’s beauty and richness of the Christian faith.
We do have a new owner, Desiree Mariscal. She is an amazing woman of God who own’s Heaven’s Shining Light and will take this place God created to the next level. You may already be familiar with some of her products which include her amazing tumblers and t-shirts. So, you are not losing a Christian Shop but gaining a talented and spirit-filled woman who will continue to serve the community in the way God has set for her. July will be a transition month and Desiree will assume the shop on August 1, 2023.
While this marks the end of a remarkable journey, it is also a reminder that every ending is a new beginning. As I reflect on the countless memories, friendships, and transformations that have unfolded within our walls, I am filled with gratitude, love and blessings. It is the incredible support from each one of you that has made this journey so rewarding.
In my next season, I will be spending more time with family, growing my own walk with Christ and continuing to help serve through ministry with the homeless community and other areas. I will also be retaining Shades of Divine online, but it will look and feel a little different. For all my Chosen & Crowned subscribers, don’t worry!!! I will continue this subscription and be adding some fresh new components. I will also carry some selected books and products then see how God moves Shades of Divine forward. God has a pretty long list for me and I’m super excited for things to come. But it is all in His time so continue to follow and shop with us and see how God is moving.
The most gratitude and glory goes to our God for His guidance and blessings throughout this journey. It is through His grace that this store came to life, thrived, and touched countless lives. May His love and light continue to shine upon each of you, illuminating your paths and filling your lives with purpose and joy.
In the spirit of new beginnings, I encourage you to continue nurturing your faith, exploring the depths of your spirituality, and seeking God in all aspects of your lives. Our Brighton store may be changing hands, but the love, compassion, and fellowship we have shared will continue to serve you.
We will be hosting a meet and greet and farewell gathering on July 28th & 29th so for all our locals we would love to have you join us to meet Desiree, see some of her products and say farewell as I exit on to my next phase.
Wishing you all abundant blessings, enduring faith, and a future filled with love and grace.
Billie Ortega
Shades of Divine
