On a Sunday morning in Mount Barker, the gentle hum of conversation can be heard mingled with the sound of grinding coffee beans at Sunday Coffee Bar, out the front of Sunday church. Opening the doors on Light Crescent earlier this week, this cozy specialty coffee spot has quickly become a beloved haven for locals with each cup brewed with care.
Coffee shop owner and local pastor, Jake Toogood says, “Mount Barker was missing a coffee shop and a church for the younger generation, so we combined them!”
Founded by Jake and his wife Holly, Sunday Coffee Bar and church operates with the mission of making each patron’s day better. With a commitment to quality, the café serves B3 specialty coffee and features rotating guest roasters, drawing coffee aficionados from across the region.
“I wanted to create a space where people feel at home,” said Jake.
Sunday, launched in March 2022, is some much more than a church and coffee shop, it’s about building connections and uplifting the spirit of Mount Barker
“Two years ago we had our first service with a coffee van out the front, it grew so fast from there,” Jake said.
He can often be found behind the counter, passionately brewing coffee and engaging with customers.
“It’s about more than just coffee, it’s about community,” Jake said.
“This unique space we’ve created has attracted a younger generation to feel at home with religion.”
Jake says it’s a space for all.
“We aren’t bible bashers, I swear!” Jake laughed.
“Anyone can come in during the week or on a Sunday and enjoy a nice cup of coffee,” he added.
“From the front, you’d never know its also a church.”
Holly, Jake’s partner and a mental health clinician specialising in youth services, complementing Jake’s vision with her passion for nurturing relationships and well-being in the community. Together, they’ve crafted a experience that offers a welcoming and vibrant, contemporary church with multigenerational focus to introduce people to community and christianity.
“We want to create a safe space where people can share their stories and support one another,” Holly explained.
“Every cup we serve is a step towards creating a better place for everyone.”
The café often hosts workshops and events aimed at promoting mental health awareness and community engagement and has become a gathering place for diverse groups.
As Sunday Coffee Bar continues to thrive, Jake and Holly remain committed to their mission of building a vibrant community.
Jake says “our slogan is ‘love people, for real – whatever it takes’ and I think our little coffee shop encapsulates just that.
What: Sunday Coffee Bar
When: From 7am every week day, closed Saturday and open for Sunday service 10am
Where: 1/11 Light Cres, Mount Barker SA 5251
Socials: Instagram & Facebook
More info: https://sunday.au/
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