Changes Coming to the Village Cup Coffee Shop

What is happening? We are excited to share that something new is in the works for the Village Cup Coffee Shop at Mission Campus. With the approval of the Elder Trustees, The Cup will close on May 25 so that we can begin transitioning the space into a free, self-service beverage station and refreshed community gathering space.

Why is this happening? The business model for the Cup is not financially sustainable. The Trustees decided that it would be wise to take a new route with the Cup while still providing a welcoming community space (and free coffee!). We consistently hear the suggestion, in surveys and anecdotal conversations, that we move toward free, self-serve beverages—rather than the current coffee-shop model—and we are excited that we can make it a reality soon.

How will we do this? Self-serve drip coffee, hot tea, and an automatic espresso-style coffee and hot chocolate machine will be available free of charge. Much of the existing cabinetry will remain in the area, including storage, and we will make use of portable pieces for events like memorial services, book signings, etc., so that the change is as cost effective as possible while still offering flexibility. We will sell much of the existing equipment and furniture to help offset other costs.

When will this happen? The Village Cup will close for weekday service on Friday, May 15. The Cup will remain open on Sundays only until May 24, after which it will be closed permanently in its present form. Starting Sunday, May 31, there will be basic, self-serve coffee available in the Welcome Center. Folks are also welcome to visit the free coffee station in Friendship Hall anytime. Also kicking off May 31, people of all ages are invited to Friendship Hall (after the new 10 a.m. worship time) for half-hour Summer Socials which will include coffee, goodies, education, and connection.

Renovations to the Cup will take place in late summer. A task force began meeting in early May to discuss and plan the upcoming improvements.

We’re grateful for the memories we’ve made in the Cup over the years and excited to see what opportunities await in a new, reimagined space in the Welcome Center!