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This Week @ Dakotas | February 10, 2026

THIS WEEK!

2026 Lenten study resources available now!
    The Dakotas Cabinet, in partnership with other clergy in the conference, has created a six-week Lenten study based on the healing stories of Jesus – “To Be Made Well”. In a time in our world where hurt, fear, and trauma are a part of our daily lives, these stories are meant to draw us back to the Great Physician, the source of healing, Jesus Christ. Resources include videos, small group study materials, worship resources, and graphics, and can be accessed through Amplify Dakotas or the Conference website

Survey and Webinars for UMC Leadership Gathering | Feb. 21, March 21
    The UMC Council of Bishops is hosting a Leadership Gathering in Calgary, Alberta, Canada from October 20-24, 2026 in place of a Special Session of General Conference. This gathering will bring together bishops, church leaders, clergy, laypersons, and key representatives from across the connectional church to discern, dream, and co‑create the future direction of The United Methodist Church. The Leadership Gathering Design Team invites leaders across the connection to participate in this survey as part of the ongoing preparation for the 2026 Leadership Gathering. Your voice will help inform how the church listens, discerns, and leads together in the years ahead.  The deadline to complete the survey is this Sunday, February 15 and takes about 10-15 minutes to complete.  
    Additionally, the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church invites the whole denomination to take part in a global webinar series leading up to the 2026 Leadership Gathering, “Emboldened by the Spirit: Imagining a Church Yet to Be.” These interactive webinars (January–March 2026) will explore core Wesleyan themes while gathering voices from across the worldwide connection. All United Methodists are encouraged to participate and help shape the future of the Church. Learn more and register here.

CONNECTOR'S CORNER

Black History Month Reading List

    Black History Month is the perfect time to be intentional about what we read and who we support. Reading Black voices is one way we practice justice: by listening, learning, and refusing to let these stories be erased. I want to share a reading list curated by The New York Society Library that features Black authors across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and children’s books: 28 Days of Discovery and Inspiration
    Justice also shows up in how we spend our money and attention. When possible, purchase books directly from an author’s official website rather than large retailers. Also, leave a review after you read! Reviews on platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, and Barnes & Noble increase visibility and help ensure these voices reach more readers.
Happy reading!
Meghan Wharton, Connector for Justice & Advocacy

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It

Clergy Tax Webinar | Feb. 17
    This free webinar is titled “Navigate Tax Season Without Losing Your Peace” and covers the most common tax mistakes many clergy make—housing allowance errors, estimated payment miscalculations, and missed deductions. It's designed to be immediately practical, not theoretical. Hosted by Seth Scott of Shepherd’s Wallet. Learn more and register here

Change the World Conference | Early Bird Registration ends this Friday
    Ginghamsburg Church has a powerful legacy of transforming lives and communities, and now God is calling us into a new day. Change The World: The Future Church looks ahead with holy imagination, forgetting what is behind and pressing toward what lies ahead. This conference is for pastors, leaders, and everyday disciples who want to envision ministry beyond yesterday's models. Together, we explore innovative mission, digital discipleship, and Spirit-driven strategies to reach a rapidly changing world with the unchanging gospel. The future is not something we fear. It is where God is already leading. Event will take place at Ginghamsburg Church in Ohio on April 23-24. Learn more.
 

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.
    Part-time Campus Ministry Director | First UMC, Brookings, SD
    Open Camping Positions | All locations

UMC

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