The church, which boasts on its website that it is a place "full of broken, imperfect people with every kind of story", does a lot more than your traditional Sunday services, bibles classes and prayer groups.

In fact, modern-day All Saints has spread its vision to welcome all-comers and include an array of support services and groups focusing on connection, friendship, benevolence and charity.

One of the church's most successful recent concepts has been the introduction of Hope Cottage, which offers free crisis food to the people of Port Stephens.

As a result of COVID, the cottage has become a lifeline for many in the Port Stephens community.

Cafe Church is the Govans' most recent initiative.

"Our aim with Cafe Church is to reach out to anyone within our community who is lonely, struggling in some way or just wanting a free cup of coffee or tea and conversation," said Rev Govan.

"Each Sunday evening the church hall doors are open between 5 and 6pm for people to drop in and enjoy a cuppa, listen to live music, hear real people's stories and relax. This is not a religious service, but a space that is as safe and stress-free as possible."

The get-togethers are open to anyone in the community - singles, couples, families, the elderly, the lonely and the disconnected.

"We are a multi-generational church and with this cafe we want to connect people who for whatever reason have become disconnected or isolated."

Rev Govan said that the global pandemic had made many people realise how dependant they are on each other.

"We are looking at better engaging with the local community. COVID has taught us many things about each other and helped us to better integrate with people. Sometimes that may mean going out into the community, so that our doors open both ways."

The Govans say they have future plans to extend the role of Hope Cottage and transform it into a full blown relief kitchen, following the closure of DARA's Van in Nelson Bay because of COVID restrictions and a lack of volunteer support.

Meanwhile, Hope Cottage continues to provide a welcoming mat to anyone who is experiencing hardship, and to access without judgement, free groceries, personal care items and emergency packs, every Tuesday from 10am to noon, or by ringing the church office on 4981 1839.

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