THIS WEEK!

Camp registration opens TOMORROW!
    Nothing warms up winter like dreaming about summer days at one of our Dakotas United Methodist Camps! Be ready to register and save a spot in your camper’s favorite program! Summer fun, friendships old and new, and time in God’s creation are just around the corner. Learn more here. 

Winter Connection | Register by Jan. 22
    Winter Connection is an annual event for middle school and high school youth sponsored by the Dakotas Conference Council on Youth Ministry (CCYM). This year's theme is Functioning Parts. The scripture focus is Romans 12:4-8. What is your calling? How can you serve? How can you use your hands, feet, gifts, and talents to share the Good News. There are three sites that will be hosting Winter Connection this year January 30-31! Sioux Falls First UMC, Bismarck McCabe UMC, and Rapid City First UMC. Learn more and register here. 

Resources

UMVIM Team Leader Training | Beginning Feb. 3
    Every time you serve beyond the doors of your church, you are a Volunteer in Mission! Team Leader Training is a valuable resource for anyone preparing a to serve around the corner or around the world. Topics include all aspects of preparing for the mission before, during, and after the journey – mission theology, finding a project, budgeting, recruiting, safety, cultural awareness, and more.

    Participating in the training does not obligate you to lead a team, but will help you understand the fundamentals of team leadership and will enrich any future Mission experiences.

    This training is offered via Zoom over four weeks, 90 minutes each week. Learn from the five jurisdiction coordinators and others through discussions, resources, connecting, and networking. Learn more here. 

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

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.

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. 

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.
   

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