THIS WEEK!

Thank You for supporting the 2025 Miracle Offering!    
     Because of the generosity of United Methodists from across the Dakotas, we were able to collect $56,505.03 for the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) as a part of our 2025 Miracle Offering. Additionally, almost 2,000 pounds of in-kind donations were collected for Midwest Mission Distribution Center.
     “This UMCOR offering is more than a number – I see it as a miracle in motion,” said Bishop Lanette Plambeck. “Over $56,000 given by the people of the Dakotas becomes our way of offering a miracle to someone, somewhere, who is praying right now for compassionate, immediate, humanitarian relief.”
     Whether responding to natural disasters, addressing global food insecurity, attending to urgent health needs, or equipping communities with clean water and hygiene kits, UMCOR is often the first to arrive and the last to leave. Every act of relief, every rebuilt home, every safe space provided, every life cared for is an embodiment of Loving BOLDLY.
     “I am deeply grateful for the Miracle Offering from the Dakotas Annual Conference in support of the work of UMCOR,” said Roland Fernandez, general secretary of Global Ministries and UMCOR. “The offering reflects the generosity of the members of the conference and their desire to help alleviate human suffering globally. It also shows the UMC connection at work which we are thankful for.”
     During the 2025 Annual Conference session, Binto Diao, Program Manager International Disaster Response at UMCOR shared with attendees about some of the current global challenges that UMCOR is helping to address right now (Watch her plenary address here.) She also shared with the laity session some of the ways churches can partner with UMCOR (Watch full presentation here.)
     “While global aid is being reduced and natural and human-made disasters continue to disrupt lives, I celebrate how our United Methodists have stepped forward and faith to offer this amazing gift,” added Bishop Lanette. “Locally, nationally, and globally, your outpouring becomes clean water, safe shelter, medical intervention – it is Matthew 25 in motion.”
     “This blessing is what it means to raise our hallelujah - not just in song, but in sacrificial generosity. Thanks be to God!”

LUKE-ACTS 2025 - Reflections & Resources

Luke-Acts Reading 
     Chapter 2 of Acts is a significant moment in scriptures as it tells the story of Pentecost - the birthday of the church. Following the commotion caused by the disciples speaking in tongues, Peter shares a powerful sermon, referencing the prophet Joel and the words of Psalms. The Spirit worked through his words and the people listening were "cut to the heart." How might the Spirit continue to work through our words and actions to bring about an invitation to follow Jesus? Additional Resource: "Chuck Knows Church: Pentecost"

RESOURCES

Apply for an UMCOR Mustard Seed Migration Grant
UMC churches in the U.S. can help immigrants, migrants and refugees living in their local communities. UMCOR’s Mustard Seed Migration Grant program provides congregations with up to $2,000 for a one-time, community-based service project. The application is open thru Sept. 1. Learn more.

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Educational Debt Relief
   Calling all clergy! Still paying off undergrad or seminary debt? Apply for the 2025 Investing in Leaders Resource Grant. Applications due by Sept. 1 for this grant of up to $5,000 to pay down educational debt. Renewal applications are also available for those who have already received this grant.

JOB ANNOUNCEMENTS | View all Ads

Jobs Available
    We're hiring! The following positions are open across the Dakotas Conference. Find out more information on our Conference website.
    Administrative Assistant & Event Planner | Dakotas & Minnesota United Methodist Foundations
    Summer Staff | Dakotas UM Camp
    Part-time Campus Ministry Director | First UMC, Brookings, SD