A century ago, the Episcopal Church was a network hub for the most powerful families in the U.S.

Now, not so much.

Like a T-Rex evolved into a chicken, Episcopal Books is celebrated in the Church's in-house magazine as the place that now represents the Church to many people--a place where they can get jewelry, crosses, and baby bibs emblazoned with the Episcopal logo.

Still, it makes sense--in contrast to far too many church services, the store provides sensory stimulus, substantive interactions and a tangible return for one's investment.