The Manger: One stop Christian shop

At first glance, The Manger may look rather large for a Christian bookstore.

But that's because it's more than just a bookstore.

"We look at it more as a Christian department store," said Bryan Hodge, who has managed the store owned by his family corporation since 1982.

Hodge said while other stores were specializing, Christian bookstores expanded their product offerings to better serve the needs of their customers.

Originally occupying a smaller space on Fairview Drive, The Manger moved to its current location behind Save Mart in south Carson City in 2001.

The new space came with greater visibility and access, but also higher rents, Hodge said.

"This city is a little small to support a Christian retail store," Hodge said.

Inside you will find a lot more than Bibles. Hodge said that Christian music and literature have exploded, creating a huge selection to choose from. For music, it can range from rap and hip hop to symphony. And the books cover more than just scriptures.

"Most people view a Christian bookstore as a place you go to get a large-print Bible and supplies for church," Hodge said. "It's really tools to help grow your walk with Jesus, how to be a better wife, a better husband, how to discipline your children, how to manage money. We even have good fiction for people who want stories that do not have too much offensive material."

Hodge cited Mel Gibson's "Passion of the Christ" as a milestone that got Hollywood interested in Christian movies again, leading to a rebirth of sorts. Movies based on "The Chronicles of Narnia" have also brought in younger viewers. Hodge also pointed to the TV show "VeggieTa-

les" as something that is creating interest among children.

"That's the Christian version of Barney meets Captain Kangaroo, with a talking carrot," Hodge said.

The store also offers clothing, wall art and gifts.

A major change since The Manger opened is the Internet. Hodge said they have to stress the advantages of offline shopping to compete.

"You can get personal attention, you can touch it and feel it, and you don't have to pay to ship it back," Hodge said. "As we build the relationship with our customers, we can make recommendations based on what they want."