THIS WEEK!

Embodied Practices | Starting Monday, April 27, 12noon-12:55p.m. CT / 11a.m. - 11:55a.m. 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. 

Serving Joyfully Looks Like...    
    Across the Dakotas, United Methodists are Serving Joyfully in their churches and communities –people of different ages and differing abilities, people who have been a part of the church for years and those who have just gotten connected, members of churches in large cities and rural communities. These individuals faithfully share their time and talents in ways that give glimpses of the selfless, sacrificial love of Christ. We want to celebrate these small but significant acts of service.
    We invite YOU to record and submit a short video (less than 30 seconds) or written testimony about examples of serving joyfully in your church or community. We will share these during annual conference session as well as on social media throughout the year so that we can continue to spur one another on toward love and good deeds! Check out this form for more information and this video testimony! Share your story before May 18th! And thank YOU for all you do to Serve Joyfully!

Apply to become a member of CCYM!
    The Conference Council on Youth Ministry (CCYM) is a group of up to 20 youth and 10 adults who serve Jesus Christ through service to the youth and youth workers of the Dakotas Conference of The United Methodist Church.  High school students graduating years 2027, 2028, and 2029 who are baptized and professing members of The United Methodist Church are eligible to apply. Youth applications are due by May 31, 2026. There are three parts to the application.  1) The application can be completed online here. 2) Each application needs to have recommendations for the applicant; details here. 3) Recorded video interviews are due by June 4, 2026; details here. 

RESOURCES

UM Student Day
    United Methodist Student Day is one of six churchwide Special Sundays designated to support ministries and causes important to the entire United Methodist Church. Celebrated on any Sunday in May, UM Student Day is an opportunity to invest in the future of our church by supporting students’ education and their journey of faith. Every dollar given on United Methodist Student Day goes directly to scholarships for United Methodist students.
    Education opens doors and creates opportunities for leadership, service, and faith development. By supporting United Methodist Student Day, we celebrate the power of learning and the important role education plays in developing faithful, thoughtful Christian leaders. This special Sunday reminds us that education is not only a personal achievement—it’s a ministry we share together. Check out these resources to promote UM Student Day in your church.

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

DWU Spring Eccumenical Youth Rally | April 29
    Dakota Wesleyan University is hosting a spring Ecumenical Youth Rally open to middle schoolers, high schoolers, youth leaders and parents. Join us for a night of worship with DWU’s Campus Ministry worship team, fellowship & fun with our students, and a deep exploration of our calling to belong together in Jesus, led by speaker Michael LeBlanc, a UMC pastor from the Florida Conference. Doors open at 6 p.m. with pizza and snacks and a time of connection before we kick-off worship at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome, cause it’s better when you’re here! Learn more about Rev. Michael here. Register for free here!

Practical Church Leadership Certification Program | Applications due May 1
    Apply by May 1 for this year-long, online certificate program designed to increase a pastor's capacity to be an effective church leader and improve skills in financial stewardship and human resource management and development. The program is offered through Dakota Wesleyan University. Contact Diane Owen for more information. 

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
    Office Assistant I/Bookkeeper | Madison UMC
    Part-time Campus Ministry Director | First UMC, Brookings, SD
    Open Camping Positions | All locations