THIS WEEK!

2026 Lenten study
    For this year’s Conference Lenten study, the Dakotas Cabinet is creating a six-week 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 sources of healing, Jesus Christ. Resources will include videos (7-10 min), small group study, worship materials, and graphics. Gospel stories that will be highlighted include:

1. Pool of Bethsaida - John 5: 1-9  - Superintendent Dan Bader
2. Bleeding Woman / Jarius Daughter - Mark 5:21-43; Matthew 9:18-26; Luke 8:41-56 - Superintendent Kris Mutzenberger
3. Bent Over Woman - Luke 13:10-17 - Rev. Deann Hardy 
4. Four Friends - Mark 2:1-12; Luke 5:18-26; Matthew 9:2-8 - Superintendent Brandon Vetter
5. Demoniac - Luke 8:26-39; Matthew 8:28-34; Mark 5:1-20 -Rev. Ron Olson
6. Blind Bartimaeus - Mark 10:46-52; Matt 20:29-34; Luke 18:35-43 - Rev. Chang Yi

Resources will be available on Amplify Dakotas and the Conference website.

Clergy Epiphany gathering
    The Dakotas Conference Cabinet is inviting all clergy to the Clergy Epiphany Gathering on February 8-10, 2026 in Aberdeen, SD.  The event will kick off on Sunday evening at 5.30pm CT with a Super Bowl watch party at Aberdeen North Highland and end by 11.30am CT on Tuesday.  Dr. Ashley Boggan, General Secretary for the General Commission on Archives and History will lead the teaching time of the gathering.

• Hotel block (expires on Jan.15):
  • Hampton Inn, 3216 7th Ave, S.E., Aberdeen, SD, Phone number is 605-262-2600 
    Hotel block name: Dakotas UMC; Rate: $119/ room or $134/ suite
• Registration fee $70 - (deadline is Jan.30); Fee includes lunch, snack breaks and dinner on Monday.

Resources

Peaceful Public witness
    “A protest is a statement or action expressing disapproval or objection to something. A protest is meant to convey this message in public, and can include dancing, chanting, sitting or even silence to convey the message. As followers of Christ, we are called to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). One way Christians can bring change to societal injustice is through peaceful protest. Often, faith groups participate in peaceful protests such as vigils, where silence, prayer and the Word are shared. United Methodists have a history of participating in peaceful (or non-violent) protests in an effort to effect change throughout the world.”

Resourceumc.org provides guidance for faith-based groups seeking to communicate a message through a peaceful protest.

The General Board of Church and Society also provides a toolkit for Creating Change Together to help churches with civic engagement.

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Beloved Women's Conference | February 6-7
    You're invited to Downtown Mitchell First United Methodist Church for their first EVER Women’s Conference! Simulcast from the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, this two-day women’s conference experience features worship, encouragement and connection. All women are welcome! Bring a friend as we gather together to be reminded that we are deeply loved! Sign up online here. 

Nominations open for Youth Worker Awards
    Do you know someone in your church or in the conference who has made an impact on the youth of the Dakotas and their journey with Christ? Nominate them for one of the following awards presented at annual conference. Nomination deadline is February 26.

• Youth Worker Hall of Fame—This award honors outstanding individuals who have committed a lifetime to serving Jesus Christ through youth ministry.  Criteria: 20 years or more of working with United Methodist youth, has not previously been inducted into the Hall of Fame, and not currently serving as an adult member of the CCYM. Nominate someone here.
• Darrel Leach Youth Worker of the Year Award—This award honors outstanding individuals who are currently serving Jesus Christ in youth ministry. Criteria nominees are: must currently be working with United Methodist youth in some capacity —volunteer, paid staff or clergy,  and is not currently serving as an adult member of CCYM. Nominate someone 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.
    Part-time Campus Ministry Director | First UMC, Brookings, SD