They have proved it again this year by operating a safe haven, with games and food, for students during orientation.
University chaplain Greg Hughson said the Otago Combined Christian Group (CCG) tent had been operating during orientation for the past 11 years.
He described it as an "information and hospitality centre".
The tent now operated 24 hours on the Union Lawn and offered a free barbecue, baking and fruit in the evenings as a practical way to reduce alcohol harm.
On Tuesday night, the group got through 800 sausages - donated by the Otago University Students Association - in two hours as students attending the Toga Party made the most of the free food.
It was also an official safe space on campus utilised by OUSA and Campus Watch as the group would look after students needing a place to chill out.
Students thought the tent was "fantastic", he said.
He was often approached by people who remembered the tent from their years at university.
The group was made up of 23 different churches in the area and each had the opportunity to be represented at the tent to talk about their work.
CCG chairman Neill Balantyne described the group as unique because different denominations were working together for a common good.
The tent will operate until Sunday.