After working for a heart doctor for 21 years, Joyce Johnson had a new vision: a Christian book and music store and ministry.
“The need to reach people and have a ministry,” she explained as her reasons for beginning True Gospel in Bartlesville 32 years ago. “It’s not just a store. It’s my life and my ministry.”
True Gospel II opened its doors in Claremore again in March after a hiatus while owner Joyce concentrated on her store in Owasso. The store, which used to be in NeMar Center, is now at 322 W. Will Rogers Blvd.
“We decided to come back. I know there’s a need over here. I know because I hear a lot of it in Owasso,” Joyce said. “Our whole motto is ‘one more soul, one more song.’”
Guests at True Gospel II can find Bibles, books, CDs, gifts, gift baskets, church supplies as well as kids, youth and teen items. Each category is neatly packed into its own room within the store – perfect for quickly locating your item or browsing through the rooms.
“We not only carry the new releases and best sellers but also we carry the older classics, especially in music,” Joyce said.
She’s able to have both stores, she said, because she’s blessed with good help at each location that allows her to go between the two.
“God has put us downtown for a lot of reasons,” she said. “The reason I wanted Claremore was because I knew they needed a Christian book store. I felt the need. The Lord just opened the door so we could be downtown.”
Additionally, the music ensemble Joyce Johnson and Friends can be found on 99.5 FM radio every Sunday morning and CDs of the group can be purchased at the store.
She said one of things that sets True Gospel II apart from big chain stores is the personal touches, helping a customer or offering to pray with someone.
“[I love] serving people, meeting new people and making friends, that’s the biggest thing,” Joyce said.
True Gospel II is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except on Wednesdays, when the store closes at 5 p.m.