About us
Welcome to The Ark Church
The word “Ark” in the original Hebrew means restoration box, life preserver, or place of refuge. That’s exactly what we believe God has called us to be here in Coomera, Gold Coast—a place of safety, healing, and new beginnings.
We are a Bible-believing, Bible-teaching church that proclaims the saving grace of Jesus Christ. We believe in the five-fold ministry and the full expression of the gifts of the Spirit, always seeking to show the love of the Lord in everything we do.
Our heart is to create a church home with a difference—a place for those who may not have felt at home in a traditional church environment. Through our journey of founding At The Ark Inc. (a ministry supporting families impacted by child sexual abuse and domestic violence), we understand what trauma, pain, and heartbreak can look like. And we also know the incredible hope, restoration, and freedom found in Jesus Christ.
The Ark Church and At The Ark Inc. have spiritual covering through MFI Australasia (Ministers Fellowship International), ensuring that all we do remains grounded in biblical integrity, accountability, and kingdom purpose.
Whether you’re exploring faith, returning to church, or simply looking for a community where you can belong—you are welcome here.
With love in Christ,
Lead Pastors Simon & Xenia Schembri
our pastors:
Simon & Xena Schembri
Steve & Mel Dawson
Simon and Xenia Schembri are the founders of At The Ark Inc., a charity dedicated to supporting families impacted by child sexual abuse and domestic violence, and equipping communities to protect and prevent abuse.
Xenia is an international author of four books, including the Brave Little Bear series, which empowers families and educators to teach children self-protective behaviours. Her autobiography, Broken to Be Beautiful, shares her personal journey of overcoming 15 years of domestic violence and finding healing and purpose in Christ. She also offers free resources, including a practical eBook on child protection, available at www.attheark.org.au. Alongside her writing, Xenia is a qualified counsellor.
Simon has served in ministry for over 25 years in both Australia and the UK, including work in Christian media. Together, Simon and Xenia draw on their lived experiences and faith to support others through trauma, sharing a message of hope, healing, and God’s unfailing grace.
Through At The Ark and as ordained pastors with Ministers Fellowship International, they now travel across Australia and beyond, speaking at events, leading workshops, and equipping churches and communities to protect children and bring restoration to those who have walked through brokenness.
To book Simon and Xenia for speaking engagements or learn more about their One in Five Child Safety Workshops, please contact xene@attheark.org.au or call 1300 504 501.
Steve & Mel Dawson: Steve gave his life to Christ at age 15 and was soon serving as a musician. By 1995, he was leading worship and has continued to minister in this area across many churches. From 1997–1998, he studied full-time at Hope of the Gold Coast (now Hope College) before joining a church plant where he served in youth ministry. Steve has a deep passion for the integrity of God’s Word in teaching and is also a survivor of cancer.
Mel (Marilyn) has a strong heart for children’s ministry and loves helping young ones grow in their faith. Together, Steve and Mel are passionate about seeing people set free from the bondage of religious legalism and discovering the grace and truth found in Jesus Christ.