Serving the City (STC) exists to disciple our congregation into service in the community, care for our neighbors and neighborhoods, and support people who have been marginalized, recognizing that this kind of active love is an integral part of life as followers of Jesus of Nazareth. We do this through prayer, financial support of partner organizations, staff care for those organizations, and volunteer efforts.
At Grace we see participation in service as an integral part of our lifelong process of discipleship to Jesus. Developing rhythms and habits of care for our neighbors is one way that Jesus calls us to grow in our apprenticeship with him.
In fact, we believe that when we actively care for others, we are showing love to Jesus himself. Very little of this comes naturally. We may feel awkward, unsure, or unconfident at first. But just like any skill, we build confidence by jumping in and doing. This is not about perfection - it is about stumbling forwards, being learners, and gradually growing in Christlikeness.
We feel called to support children and families in the foster care system. Our primary partner in this area is Olive Crest. Also, we work with a local group of pastors and volunteers as a part of the Foster Support Faith Alliance to offer support to the staff and clients of the MLK office of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families.
We feel called to support people who work in the sex trade in Seattle and those who are trying to gain freedom from sex trafficking. Our primary partner in this area is REST (Real Escape from the Sex Trade).
We are called to support our unhoused neighbors in Seattle. This is such a critical need in our city and is significantly interconnected with our other areas of emphasis. Our primary partner in this area is New Horizons.
Finally, the STC committee feels a sense of call to find ways to care for immigrant and refugee communities in Seattle. We have officially partnered with World Relief who works to provide welcome, housing, and other support to refugees and displaced people as they acclimate to life in the U.S.
As our STC ministry is such a key part of our church’s calling, we allocate a substantial portion of our General Fund toward it in our budget each year. Additionally, you can provide direct financial support by earmarking your electronic gift or check to “Serving the City”. Matching giving to the STC Fund may also be available through your employer.
