One of the city centre's go-to cafes and shops for Christians is closing down as the group can no longer afford the rent. 

The Revelation Christian Resource Centre is bidding farewell at the end of September when the lease for its St Michael-at-Plea Church premises in Redwell Street expires. 

Having been at the church for more than a decade, the announcement comes as a blow to the city's religious community. 

The shop and cafe inside St Michael-at-Plea Church will close in SeptemberThe shop and cafe inside St Michael-at-Plea Church will close in September (Image: Margaret Smith)
 
Margaret Smith, chair of trustees, said: "It goes without saying that we have done this with heavy hearts and in the knowledge of the impact it will make on so many people who regularly come to this special place.

"This decision was not made lightly but the change in shopping habits, the increase of online shopping and the general cost of living have taken their toll on this centre.

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"We cannot afford the rent or the running costs of this beautiful building and it is only fair to our staff, supporters and volunteers that we have acted in this way."

Revelation made the decision in the face of financial difficulties Revelation made the decision in the face of financial difficulties (Image: Google Maps)

According to Margaret, alternative avenues have been considered but no viable option has been found yet. 

This comes as the future looks "more and more uncertain" for younger worshippers who are straying away from book and card sales. 

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Calls to support the struggling centre stretch as far back as 2012 when sponsored walks and fundraisers were held to pull it out of financial straits. 

The future of the church is unclear The future of the church is unclear (Image: Newsquest)
 
Margaret added: "We would like to people of all faiths who have supported our ministry – whether by generous giving, faithful prayer or by their presence in the shop and cafe."

A "super sale" will run throughout August with reductions of up to 30pc. 

The cafe's kitchenware will also be for sale, including a toaster, microwaves and crockery.
 
The centre's last day will be Saturday, September 28.