By Maggie DiGiovanni
Special to the Elmore/Autauga News
Top Photo: Gina and Bella in front of the shop in Eclectic.
ECLECTIC, AL – “Finding Common Ground,” written on an outdoor blackboard, is what The Cornerstone Coffee Company does for so many in Eclectic. Whether neighbors stop to get reacquainted, lovers heal a misunderstanding, or groups meet for special reasons, all find common ground over delicious coffee.
The idea of Bella, daughter of Gina and Guy Sanders, was realized by Gina and her friend Grace Bellew. After much thinking, praying and work, Cornerstone opened a year and a half from its conception. Gina struggled between two names – Common Ground or Cornerstone. While attending a Hillsong Concert, she prayed that God would let her know if this company should be started as a ministry to His glory. And if it became a reality, should the name be Cornerstone or Common Ground?
Angel, her other daughter, tapped Gina on her arm. “Mom, listen. Do you know what that song is they are playing? It’s called Cornerstone!” Not only did God come through with a resounding “yes,” but He gave His choice for the name.
Throughout the building period, over and over, as problems presented themselves, prayer and determination solved each one until the only one left was would the Eclectic community accept them? Some came out of curiosity and others because they knew the owners. However, just about all stayed. People arrived from out of town and out of state to visit the coffee shop of which they heard so much.
Customers come for great coffee, easy-to-talk-to people, and quick service. The actions of the owners and baristas let people know God also works there.
What do you find at Cornerstone? Delicious coffees of every variety, flavorings made by hand each day, coffee to the taste of the individual customer. Matthew, age 8, and his younger sister insist coming to Cornerstone is the perfect date with their mom.
Great coffee is only part of the story. Gina buys from plantations where owners help the people in their individual areas. For instance, where a sleeping volcano coughs occasionally, once mud huts fell from the tremors. With companies like Cornerstone, the workers graduated from mud to cinder block homes.
From October 5-9, the shop that has truly become a cornerstone of the community, is celebrating a birthday. Special events were held every day. A few were Pup and a Cup – where pets received a small cup of whipped cream or Sip and a Story with readings by community authors.
The culmination of a fun week occurs on today, October 9th, with entertainment for everyone. If there is anyone who has not visited Cornerstone in Eclectic, this is a great day to get acquainted. Maybe all will find common ground while there.
Follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CornerstoneCoffeeCoEclectic. Or better yet, visit them in person at 12 Kowaliga Road Eclectic, AL.
