CAFE TEAM

Welcome to the Team!

A message from our Pastor - Alex Tan

OUR VISION

MORE PEOPLE BECOMING MORE LIKE JESUS

Jesus' last words are our first priority.

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

(Matthew 28:18-20 | The Great Commission)

As a church, we exist to see souls saved and disciples made. We exist to see more people becoming more like Jesus.

This statement speaks of multiplication and discipleship; it is a mission to expand our community, not just in numbers, but in the depth of our faith. We're committed to reaching more of the coast and extending the invitation to experience the transformative power of Jesus' teachings. Simultaneously, we're focused on deepening our understanding and embodiment of those teachings and fostering a community of disciples who reflect the love and grace of Jesus.

This is where you come in! How can you embody “more people becoming more like Jesus” this year?

Our values are who we are. They are not just what we do, but they are part of our DNA. 
If the vision is the roof, the values are the pillars to support it and keep it strong.
Our values propel us toward our vision and guide all that we do.
This is the language we want to hear in every team rally, team meeting and team chat.

1 - JESUS IS OUR MESSAGE 

  • We believe Jesus is God’s answer for the world.

  • We’re Jesus people and live to represent Him.

  • We believe one encounter with Jesus changes everything.

2 - PEOPLE ARE OUR HEART 

  • We value people because God values people.

  • We choose to encourage, honour and love one another.

  • We are authentic, family focussed and make real connections.

  • We’re here to see people saved and make disciples.

  • We believe everyone can do something to reach others.

3 - SERVANTHOOD IS OUR ATTITUDE

  • We love serving the Lord together.

  • We are contributors, not consumers.

  • We choose to go the extra mile.

  • We serve generously with our time, talent and treasure.

OUR VALUES

Meet your Team Lead

Hi there! If we haven’t met already, my name is Simon and I lead the Café Team. I’m so glad you’re here and excited to have you on the team.

The café is far more than coffee. It is connection. It is conversation. It is community.

For many people, some of their most meaningful moments at church happen over a cup of coffee. It’s where friendships begin, prayer requests are shared, guests are welcomed and people linger just a little longer. What you create in this space helps church feel like family.

Being part of the cafe team is not just about serving drinks or handling food. It is discipleship in action. God has given each of us grace to play our part. The win every Sunday is simple, to create a space where people can encounter Jesus and where relationships can grow naturally and warmly.

The Café Team plays a powerful role in this. You create atmosphere. You create comfort. You create moments where someone feels seen and known.

Excellence in hospitality reflects the heart of God.

Below you’ll find everything you need to know about serving on the Café Team, including expectations, practical steps and what a Sunday looks like.

I’m here for any questions you may have and I can’t wait to serve alongside you.

Simon

How we serve & serve well

  • Dress Code:

    We come to our Sunday services dressed modestly and to honour God. 

    Practically, that means wearing your hm.church lanyard while serving, bottoms that reach your knees, and no low-cut necklines that may show cleavage. Crop tops are not acceptable. Nothing that’s too tight, short, or revealing. 

    Clothing with prints and patterns are acceptable, unless they have language or images that may be offensive or inappropriate.

    We respect everyone’s styles and personalities, however, please dress to ‘blend in’, rather than to ‘stand out’ - we want our congregation’s focus to be on Jesus!

    If unsure, please feel free to ask our leaders at any time.

    Blue Card:

    All volunteers at hm.church are required to have a blue card issued by the Government. This is free and easily accessible. Once you have applied for a blue card, please provide your name, date of birth, card number and expiry date to Darren. If you don’t yet have a Blue Card go here for more info.

  • Punctuality:

    Your reliability sets the tone for the team. Please arrive on time and stay until it is complete. If you are unable to attend or will be late, let the leader know as early as possible.

    Communication:

    We use Facebook Messenger & SMS for Sunday updates and team communications. We believe in honouring each other's time and effort so expect responses to communications.

Next Steps

  • Our onboarding process is designed to set you up for success and help you feel confident serving on the Café Team.

    To get started, please review the following resources:

    • Day in the Life – Café Team

    • Café Start of Day Checklist

    • Café Pack Down Checklist

    • Food Safety Expectations

    • Helpful Hints

    From there, onboarding takes place over your first two times serving on the team.

    You will serve alongside experienced team members, watching and learning:

    • Opening procedures

    • Coffee machine and grinder operation

    • Food preparation and presentation

    • Register and float handling (if applicable)

    • Cleaning and food safety processes

    • Pack down and close down procedures

    You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, observe workflow, and gradually step into tasks with hands-on support.

    You are considered fully onboarded when:

    • You are confident in all aspects of your role

    • You can operate equipment safely and correctly

    • You understand food safety and hygiene standards

    • You can step into your position without needing step-by-step guidance

    • You are able to explain and show someone else how to do the role

    Our goal is not just competence, but confidence. We want you to feel equipped, supported and ready to serve with excellence.

  • We have a high feedback culture, and a culture of leading up. What this means is that communication is always two-way, we welcome any and all questions you may have, and encourage you to bring any issues, concerns, interests and more to our leaders.

    Our leaders are equipped to answer your questions to the best of our ability, and will always be ready to support you.

MORE INFO

  • Item Throughout the morning, your role is to create a space that feels like family and allows people to encounter Jesus.

    The café is more than coffee. It is connection, conversation and community. Excellence in preparation helps create moments where people feel welcomed, relaxed and open.

    Here’s what a typical Sunday looks like:

    7:30 AM – Arrival

    Arrive ready to serve.

    We begin with a short team rally, prayer and any special variations briefing for the day. This is where we align, assign roles and prepare our hearts.

    Start of Day – Opening the Café

    Open the Café

    • Turn on café lights and fridge lights

    • Count the float

    • Turn on the grinder and fill with beans

    • Run 2 test shots through each group head
      20g dose
      24–30 second extraction
      30ml shot

    We prepare with excellence because consistency matters.

    Restocking

    • Stock milk into the small fridge, rotating oldest to the front

    • Restock syrups, powders, marshmallows, cups, lids and straws

    • Fill food cabinet and log temperatures

    Attention to detail keeps the café running smoothly and safely.

    Food Preparation

    • Prep any food or smoothie items required for the day

    Fresh, ready and well presented.

    Safety & Compliance Checks

    • Check and log fridge temperatures

    Food safety is part of honouring people.

    Cleaning & Setup

    • Wipe down tables and set up outdoor furniture

    • Wipe benches, cabinets and front of coffee machine

    A clean space communicates care.

    Team Alignment

    • Team rally and prayer

    • Discuss daily specials and any new food items

    • Induct new volunteers if needed

    We serve together, not alone.

    During the Service

    The café operates with warmth and efficiency.

    Between services:

    • Wipe tables and reset spaces

    • Restock milk and supplies

    • Check cleanliness and presentation

    We create a welcoming atmosphere before and after each service.

    Post-Service – Pack Down

    Pack down begins 30 minutes after the final service.

    Coffee Station

    • Turn off and close coffee machine

    • Empty and clean grinder

    • Backflush the coffee machine

    • Wipe down all benches and machine surfaces

    Food & Pastry Area

    • Pack away cakes and pastries

    • Wipe pastry cabinet surfaces

    Cleaning Tasks

    • Clean all dishes

    • Drain and shut down dishwasher

    • Return syrups to fridge

    • Restock drink fridges if needed

    • Wipe counters, equipment and sinks

    • Sweep and spot mop where required

    Final Close Down

    • Ensure all appliances are turned off

    • Remove rubbish or tie off ready for next collection

    • Leave the space clean, tidy and reset

    • Turn off lights and lock up

    We finish strong.

    The Win

    • The café feels warm and welcoming.

    • People linger, connect and build relationships.

    • The space supports people encountering Jesus.

    Hospitality is ministry. Every coffee served with excellence and kindness creates room for connection.description

  • Throughout the morning, your role is to create a space that feels like family and allows people to encounter Jesus. The café is a place of connection, and you help shape the atmosphere.

    1. Warm & Hospitable

    Friendly and welcoming presence
    Comfortable engaging in light conversation
    Creates a relaxed and positive environment
    Makes guests feel valued and seen

    Hospitality reflects the heart of God.

    2. Spiritually Aware

    Arrives prayed up
    Understands that conversations in the café can be ministry moments
    Carries patience and kindness under pressure
    Recognises that every interaction matters

    We serve coffee, but we also serve people.

    3. Reliable & Punctual

    On time for 7:30am arrival
    Engaged in team rally and prayer
    Ready to serve both services and pack down
    Dependable in assigned roles

    Consistency builds trust.

    4. Team-Oriented

    Works well in a fast-paced environment
    Communicates clearly with other team members
    Willing to step in wherever needed
    Supports new volunteers

    We succeed together.

    5. Detail-Oriented

    Follows food safety and hygiene standards
    Rotates stock correctly
    Logs fridge temperatures
    Keeps benches and equipment clean
    Maintains presentation of food and coffee areas

    Excellence in small details creates a great experience.

    6. Calm Under Pressure

    Able to manage busy rush periods
    Keeps a positive attitude
    Maintains quality while working efficiently
    Does not allow stress to affect hospitality

    People may forget their coffee order, but they won’t forget how they were treated.

    The Win

    • The café feels warm, welcoming and well organised.

    • People linger, connect and build relationships.

    • The environment supports people encountering Jesus.

    Every cup served with excellence and kindness helps create moments that matter.

  • Serving food and drinks is a privilege and a responsibility. We are committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety and care in everything we do.

    Food safety is part of honouring the people we serve.

    Personal Hygiene

    Wash hands regularly, especially:

    • Before handling food

    • After touching rubbish

    • After using the restroom

    • After handling money

    Hair should be neat and tied back if long.
    Avoid touching face or hair while preparing food.
    Do not serve if you are unwell.

    Food Handling

    • Use gloves or utensils where appropriate

    • Avoid direct hand contact with ready-to-eat foods

    • Keep raw and ready-to-eat foods separate

    • Ensure food is covered and stored correctly

    • Rotate stock using oldest-first principles

    If in doubt, ask before serving.

    Temperature Control

    • Log fridge temperatures at the start of the day

    • Keep fridges closed as much as possible

    • Ensure food cabinets are at correct serving temperature

    • Do not serve food that has been left out beyond safe time limits

    Temperature control protects everyone.

    Cleanliness & Workspaces

    • Keep benches clean and clutter-free

    • Wipe spills immediately

    • Clean equipment after use

    • Wash dishes thoroughly

    • Sweep and mop where required

    A clean café communicates care and professionalism.

    End of Day Hygiene

    • Properly clean and backflush coffee machine

    • Empty and clean grinder

    • Store syrups and perishable items in the fridge

    • Dispose of rubbish appropriately

    • Leave the space clean, tidy and ready for next use

    We finish with the same excellence we start with.

    If You’re Unsure

    If you are ever unsure about food safety, ask your team leader immediately.

    It is always better to clarify than to assume.

    Excellence in food safety protects our church, honours our guests and reflects our commitment to serving with integrity.

  • Start of day checklist:

    READ

    All you need to know to get started for the day. A quick at a glance

    End of day checklist:

    READ

    All you need to know to pack down for the day. A quick at a glance

  • 1. What time do I need to arrive?

    Please arrive at 7:30am sharp.

    This allows time for team rally, prayer, role allocation and full café setup before guests arrive.

    Being on time ensures we start calm, prepared and ready.

    2. What should I wear?

    Dress neat, modest and practical.

    Closed shoes are recommended for safety. You’ll be moving, preparing drinks and handling food, so comfort and cleanliness are important.

    3. What is the main goal of the Café Team?

    Our win every Sunday is simple:

    • The café feels warm and welcoming.

    • People stay, connect and build relationships.

    • The space supports people encountering Jesus.

    The café is often where conversations begin and community grows.

    4. Do I need barista experience?

    Not necessarily.

    We will train you on how to use the machine, grinder and workflow. A willingness to learn and serve with excellence is what matters most.

    5. What if it gets really busy?

    Stay calm and communicate.

    Work as a team, focus on quality, and keep hospitality front and centre. A smile and kind tone go a long way, even during peak moments.

    6. What are the food safety expectations?

    We:

    • Log fridge temperatures

    • Rotate stock correctly

    • Keep preparation areas clean

    • Store food properly

    • Wash hands regularly

    Food safety is part of honouring the people we serve.

    7. Do I serve both services?

    Yes. Café Team members generally serve the full morning, including pack down after the final service. As the team grows we will work towards a First Service & Second Service teams.

    Consistency helps create a seamless experience.

    8. What happens after the final service?

    Pack down begins 30 minutes after service.

    We:

    • Turn off and clean the coffee machine

    • Backflush and clean the grinder

    • Pack away food items
      Wash dishes and shut down dishwasher

    • Sweep, wipe down surfaces and reset

    • Turn off appliances and lights

    We finish strong and leave the space ready.

    9. What if I can’t serve one Sunday?

    Please let the team leader know as early as possible so we can organise cover.

    Communication helps the whole team prepare well.

    10. Will I be responsible for money?

    Some roles may involve handling payments or operating the register.

    If you are assigned to the register, you will be shown exactly how the system works and how to handle the float correctly. You will never be left unsure of the process.

    Integrity and accuracy matter, but you will always have support and clear instruction.

    11. What if I feel nervous?

    That’s completely normal.

    You’re not serving alone. We work as a team, we support each other and we grow together. Just bring a willing heart and a servant spirit.

Rostering

Ezra Tan covers rosters in this video

Safety

The Café Team plays an important role in creating a safe, welcoming and well-managed environment. Safety is not just about compliance, it is about loving people enough to prevent harm before it happens.

Because we serve food, hot drinks and operate equipment, attention to safety is essential.

All Café Volunteers Should:

  • Know the emergency evacuation procedures

  • Know how to report incidents, hazards or spills immediately

  • Have their Blue Card linked to hm church (if applicable)

  • Follow Safe Ministry expectations

  • Follow food safety and hygiene guidelines

If you see something unsafe, act or report it straight away.

Specifically, Café Volunteers Must:

  • Handle hot liquids with care

  • Be mindful of steam wands, boiling water and hot surfaces

  • Keep walkways clear of bags, boxes and equipment

  • Clean spills immediately to prevent slips

  • Use knives and food preparation tools safely

  • Operate the coffee machine and grinder only after proper training

  • Ensure all electrical cords are positioned safely and not creating trip hazards

  • Never attempt to repair equipment without approval

Safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Hygiene & Health

  • Do not serve if you are unwell

  • Wash hands regularly

  • Wear appropriate footwear

  • Maintain clean benches and food preparation areas

Protecting people’s health protects the whole church.

Emergency Contact

Darren Lockwood: 0412 378 561

If there is any serious incident, notify a team leader immediately.

FEELS LIKE HOME