The 2026 Annual Conference Miracle Offering supports life-long learning and discipleship in a variety of contexts. One way we offer that support is through the Endowment for Theological Education in Africa, the Philippines, and Europe. Over the next six weeks, we will be sharing stories and resources as a way to help Dakotas United Methodists understand the difference their generosity is making in the Dakotas and around the world.  We'll also share the weekly reflections from the small group resources shared by the Council of Bishops. (The complete small group guide and worship resources can be found here.)

Below is a testimony from Rev. Sarah Tiainen, a pastor from Finland who has been impacted by theological education offered through the United Methodist connexion. 

Rev. Sarah Tiainen, Finland

I am a UMC pastor in Kokkola and Jakobstad. Like many Finns, I was born and raised Lutheran. During my studies in Theology at Åbo Akademi University, I became acquainted with The United Methodist Church in Finland through the local Methodist church in Turku, a multilingual church with worshipers from many different nations. The church’s profile was charismatic and evangelical, not unlike the local Lutheran congregations in my hometown. Even though many of the active members of the church were non-Methodists at first, I also met many of the born-and-raised Methodists who would come to shape my view of God and faith.

Through those people, I discovered a God who allowed me to use my knowledge of how the world works and my logical thinking when approaching Him. In that church, I discovered my calling into ministry, because I was presented with reasons why women could and should become pastors and leaders. I not only felt the calling to serve my local church right there in Turku, but also discovered a broader calling to become an elder within the UMC.

Since I received my university degree in Theology at a non-denominational university, I was happy to deepen my understanding of Methodist theology through the Methodist e-Academy. Having gone through a sort of conversion from Lutheranism to Methodism during my local theological training, I fell in love with Methodist theology even more during my studies at the Methodist e-Academy. I sometimes joke that if everyone were more acquainted with Methodist theology, everyone would want to become Methodists!

In addition to shaping and confirming my Methodist conviction, the Methodist e-Academy was my first encounter with our worldwide connexionalism. I studied alongside Methodist pastors from all over Europe, and I am happy to this day to call these people my friends and dear colleagues.

I am convinced that if we want to continue to exist as a denomination in Europe, specifically Finland, we need to embrace our Methodist identity, not blur it out to “fit in” with a more general crowd of Christians in Europe. I believe that in our DNA, history, and theology, we have what it takes to once again do the ministry that Christ has called us to do through the church that is called the Methodist church. We still have a mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

The Methodist e-Academy plays a very important part by educating and connecting people from all over Europe and the world. I am forever grateful for my education and my connections through the e-Academy.

Note: Funding for theological education for students like Sarah will be sustained through gifts to the Endowment Fund for Theological Education.

WEEK 1: Disciples Formed by Jesus Christ

Introduction

Following Jesus begins with formation. Christ does not simply call people to believe; he shapes their entire way of life. In every culture and community, disciples are formed through Scripture, worship, fellowship, prayer, and the daily practice of following God’s ways. In United Methodism, we call this the “Means of Grace,” or spiritual disciplines. Our understanding is that as we regularly practice these, we experience God’s grace.

This first week invites us to reflect on what it means to be shaped by Christ in mind, heart, and action. Becoming a disciple is not instant; it is a lifelong journey of learning to walk in God’s path, to grow in spiritual maturity, and to join Jesus in his mission. As the Miracle Sunday Campaign strengthens theological education across Africa, Europe, and the Philippines, we remember that Christ continues forming leaders everywhere for the sake of the Church and the world.

Scripture Passages
Psalm 119:1–8
Ephesians 4:11–16
Luke 5:1–11

Bishop Patrick Streiff, Switzerland (photo form UMNews)

Meditation and Prayer by Global Leaders

Contributor: Bishop Patrick Streiff   Location: Switzerland

Bible Text: Ephesians 4:11–16

Meditation / Scripture Reflection:
I grew up in Switzerland, where friends and I debated self‑determination versus external control. Some assumed that a practicing Christian lives under external control. That tension did not ring true. I met Christian leaders whose joyful and liberating faith reflected the essence of Christ. I chose to follow Christ, not because of pressure, but because of the power of the love of God in Christ. I chose to profess membership in a small United Methodist community because that community helped me discover Christ. Others helped me recognize gifts from God, and I sensed a quiet call to ministry. “As each part works properly, the body grows, building itself up in love” (Ephesians 4:16). This remains my prayer for the Church.

Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, you love us and call us to be members of your body on earth. Through the Holy Spirit, transform our lives from the inside out so that we may build community and help transform society. Strengthen each of us to share boldly the gifts you give for the joy and courage of ministry in this world. Amen.

Contributor: Bishop Rosemarie Wenner    Location: Germany

Bible Text: Psalm 119:1–8 — A prayer of blessing for those who walk in the ways of God

Retired Bishop Rosemarie Wenner, Germany (photo from the Council of Bishops)

Meditation / Scripture Reflection:
On a recent train trip to Copenhagen, I almost set off in the wrong direction from the station. A friend corrected my course and saved me a long walk with a heavy suitcase. I desire to walk in the ways of God for the sake of people and the earth, yet I often need help to discern the way. Praying Psalm 119, I choose to use my ears, eyes, and mind to study the statutes of God, and I ask for guidance to use my mouth, feet, and hands to practice what I learn. Formation improves spiritual direction. It works best in community, where siblings offer insight, inspiration, and correction. I give thanks for theological schools and seminaries that form Christ‑centered disciples for mission wherever United Methodists serve.

Ephesians 4:11–16 — The body of Christ growing into maturity, shaped by Christ the head
My doctor tells me that the physical body shrinks with age. Scripture tells me I am not too old to help the body of Christ grow. We build up the Church together. Some share the gospel in familiar and new places. Some speak prophetically for compassion and justice. Some comfort those who mourn, others teach what discipleship means, and many serve through prayer. None can do all that is needed. Everyone can do a part. Equipped with different gifts, we learn with– and from– one another in homes, cafés, hospitals, classrooms, and sanctuaries. It is not always easy, yet Christ is the head. We are bound together in love, locally, regionally, and globally. Together we grow toward maturity, no matter our age.

Luke 5:1–11 — Jesus calls the first disciples, forming lives for mission
Peter and his companions return from a night of empty nets. Jesus borrows their boat to teach, then calls them to try again. Abundance follows: nets strain and boats nearly sink. Peter, overwhelmed, asks Jesus to depart. Jesus stays and calls them into lifelong mission. As we approach Miracle Sunday, a large offering for theological education would be wonderful, yet Jesus seeks more than gifts. He seeks us. He calls us to follow and to serve. Are we ready to leave fear, fatigue, stubbornness, or faintheartedness, and go where Christ leads?

Prayer: Holy God, you are life, love, and hope. We praise you and seek you with our whole heart. Speak to us and lead us on your way. Christ Jesus, our brother and savior, you proclaimed good news to the poor and set the oppressed free. You called Simon Peter, James, and John, and taught that discipleship is costly. Through death you brought new life, and you walked the road of hope with many witnesses. We hear your call. Form us in your image. Teach us to be your Church. Equip us to serve the world that God loves. Give resilience for many second miles. Above all, remind us that in you we have hope. God, through the Holy Spirit, renew us by resurrection power. Ignite us to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously wherever we are. Amen.

Video Testimony

Today, we hear Gabriella’s testimony—a student at United Seminary in Harare who discovered joy, meaning, and purpose when life felt like it was falling apart. Her education was made possible through the generosity of United Methodists around the world.