THIS WEEK!

Breakthrough Ministry Grants | Application deadline April 30
    Breakthrough Ministry grants of up to $3,000 are available for churches looking to launch new ministries or to extend the impact of an existing ministry in a new way as a response to the movement of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of Dakotas United Methodists.
     These projects/ministries should:

• Be outward-focused (reach beyond the existing membership of the church)
• Create opportunity for relationship-building
• Move people closer to a connection with Christ and the Church

Grants are for United Methodist Churches and United Methodist-related Ministries in the Dakotas Conference. Grants are awarded quarterly. Application deadlines are January 31, April 30, July 31, October 31. For questions about the application process, contact Katie Meister with the Dakotas Methodist Foundation.

Annual Conference award nominations due TOMORROW!
    Several awards will be announced at annual conference. Nominations for the following awards are now being accepted:

• The Foundation for Evangelism Laity Award is jointly presented by denominational regional bodies (annual conference, district, etc) and the Foundation. The award honors lay persons with exceptional evangelistic ministries that bring people into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ, encourage continued discipleship, and emphasize living out one’s faith in daily life. Nominate someone here. 
• The Streams of Justice Award calls attention to a United Methodist sponsored program or event which promotes justice in our Annual Conference. Ministries on Native American reservations, local churches and outreach centers in communities (rural and urban), and state-wide and regional organizations which have programs that offer components of justice education, advocacy and empowerment in addition to material assistance and spiritual support are encouraged. Submit nominations here. 
• NEW AWARD! #BeUMC Award, presented by the Dakotas Conference and UM Communications, honors one church, one layperson, and one clergy member each year who exemplify the spirit and mission of the United Methodist Church: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Recipients of this award should also reflect our shared UMC vision - to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. Submit nominations here. 

RESOURCES

Hot-button issues in church communication | MyCom Podcast Ep. 117
    Navigating tough conversations in today’s polarized climate is one of the most pressing challenges for church communicators and leaders. In this episode of the MyCom Church Communications and Marketing Podcast, Rev. Dr. Scott Hughes, author of the Courageous Conversations curriculum, talks about how churches can respond to hot-button topics with a prophetic voice—without alienating their communities. Whether you’re crafting public statements on current events, encouraging difficult conversations, or seeking to equip your congregation for deeper unity, this episode will support your ministry with real-world examples and expert advice. Find the episode on all podcast streaming platforms or on the ResourceUMC website here. 

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Embodied Practices | Starting Monday, April 27, 12noon-12:55p.m. CT / 11am - 11:55am MT
    Beginning Monday, April 27, we are inviting clergy across the Dakotas and Minnesota Conferences to engage in a monthly embodied practice session on the 4th Monday of every month to provide guidance in restoration and regulation. Rachel Svanoe Moynihan, a somatic experiencing practitioner and educator, will offer her knowledge and expertise during the session.
    This monthly, embodied practice session is a facilitated opportunity for clergy to slow down, care for themselves, and receive the support of guided, embodied practice. Embodied practice deepens our sense of rootedness in our bodies, and in our relationships with God, others, and the rest of creation. Each 45-55 min session will include elements that you can take home with you, to practice amidst the stress and pressure of daily life. You’re invited to bring your whole, honest self, wherever you’re at, and join colleagues as we deepen our capacity for returning to presence, agency and connection. Register here for this monthly recurring virtual session. There is no charge. Check out this video from Rachel for more information. 

Work at camp! All locations hiring
    Looking for more information about seasonal and summer jobs at camp? These job descriptions lay it out for you, but don't forget about the things a job description can't describe: the community, growth, and adventures you'll find at camp and the skills, curiosity, and resilience you bring with you!

Early Bird Camping Discount | April 30
   Register your camper for a summer or fall program by midnight on April 30 and they'll receive a $25 camp store credit to use during their time at any one of our Dakotas United Methodist Camps. Learn more and register here.

JOB ANNOUNCEMENTS | View all Ads

Jobs Available
    We're hiring! The following positions are open across the Dakotas Conference.
    Find more information on our Conference website.
    Church Accompanist | Pierre First UMC
    Contemporary Worship Leader | Pierre First UMC
    Office Administrator | Epworth UMC, Valley City, ND
    Part-time Campus Ministry Director | First UMC, Brookings, SD
    Open Camping Positions | All locations