17.1 The Innovation and Support Committee exists to foster space where new ministries in Grace Presbytery can be cultivated and nurtured in their various shapes and forms. The ISC is committed to supporting the leaders of these new ministries by connecting them to training, assessments, coaching, and grants. Additionally, the ISC works to support existing congregations and communities, and their leaders, as they discern new ways forward in their unique and contextual ministries through grants and thoughtful connection to our various ministry partners. The ISC strives to be a team that can help the whole of Grace Presbytery move toward a hopeful future of innovative, sustainable and vibrant ministry.

17.2 The ISC consists of twelve members. The Executive Presbyter (or designee) is an ex-officio member with voice but not vote. The Disaster Response Team chair (or designee) is an ex-officio member of the committee with voice but not vote.

17.3 The Disaster Response Team is a subcommittee of the ISC.

17.4 The Committee steers grant processes to support new ministries and congregations through the following grants: 1001 NWC Program Grants, New Ministry Initiative Grants, Small Church Need Grants, Congregational Vitality and Support Policy Grants and Emergency Grants.

17.5 The committee approves expenditures from the Mission Outreach Fund.

17.6 The committee oversees and supports new church developments, fellowships, new worshiping communities, and other partnerships created by the presbytery.

17.7 The committee provides support to the churches of the presbytery throughout the lifecycle of a congregation – birth, vitality, and decline.

A committee shall study and recommend action or carry out decisions already made by a council. It shall make a full report to the council that created it, and its recommendations shall require action by that body. (G-3.0109)