About Us
Welcome to Ark Angel Christian Bookshop.
We are a Christian Bookshop and resource centre located in the lovely North Cornish seaside town of Bude and have served the local community and the many visitors to the area since 1986.
We are supported by the 9 local churches and enjoy the backing of Christians Together Bude and Stratton as part of a wider collaborative ministry to the area.
Our History
Initially the vision of Rev. Dennis Burton and his wife Sally and it was literally that, a vision from God to see a Christian Bookshop in Bude. God showed him a Canal Narrowboat to provide a floating bookshop and Christian centre. This vision was realised on the 8th October 1985 when a 70ft Narrowboat “Mountbatten Venturer” arrived on the wharf side at the Bude Canal and was craned into place. It finally opened as a bookshop in May 1986.
This bookshop and Christian centre went from strength to strength becoming a local landmark to the many visitors to Bude. Because of its success and to move into a more central position in Bude we moved from the boat in May 1995 to its current shop site in Lansdowne Mews.
The name Ark Angel was given to us by Rev. Burtons son Matthew who was 11 at the time. He suggested that an Ark was a boat sent to save people from the flood and an Angel is a messenger of God. Hence “Ark Angel” a messenger sent to save.
Our current work
The Ark Angel was always envisioned as much more than just a bookshop we are here to provide a Christian presence and haven in the centre of Bude. Of course books especially “The Book” are central to our ministry along with gifts and Christian resources for our brothers and sisters. But we are also here to be a safe harbour and friendly ear to any passing visitor. Somewhere to be still, browse our books and chill a while.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet
and a light for my path”
Psalm 119:105
Our supporters
Ark Angel is a non-profit organisation with all proceeds ploughed back into the shop to enable us to provide this service, books, resources and love to all. We are supported both by sales of our books and resources, and by the generous support of individuals and churches. If you would like to know more about how you may become a “Friend of Ark Angel” please speak to us or sign up for our regular Newsletter keeping you informed of God’s wonderful provision to the people who visit us.