THIS WEEK!

Register for Exploration 2026 
    Interested in ordained ministry? Attend Exploration, a vocational discernment retreat hosted by GBHEM, is set for November 6-8, in Orlando, Florida. With a blend of theological reflection, practical workshops, and networking opportunities, Exploration offers participants the tools and relationships needed to take next steps. Attendees connect with denominational leaders and resources while joining peers who are asking similar questions about their future. Registration is now open for adults 18 and older. Learn more and register. Scholarship support is available through the Dakotas Conference Board of Ordained Ministry. Contact Susan Punt for more info.

Bishop's Summer Book Study - Starts THIS Saturday, June 27
    You're invited to participate in a 2026 Summer Book Study led by Bishop Lanette. In this Area-wide study, United Methodists across the Dakotas and Minnesota are invited to read "Building Beloved Community: The Courage to Love in the Face of Tyranny" by The United Methodist Council of Bishops. This book offers a prophetic roadmap for these turbulent times where we see polarization dividing communities and people of faith confronted with an urgent question: “What does faithful discipleship look like when beloved community is under attack?” Through biblical reflection, global perspectives, and practical strategies, participants will discern faithful responses to local challenges while connecting to the worldwide struggle for justice and peace. 
    All are welcome! Mark your calendar and encourage others to join you. Order your book or e-book now! 
    Discussions will be held via Zoom on the fourth Saturday morning in June, July, August and September, from 9-10:30 a.m. CT / 8-9:30 a.m. MT, centering largely on the discussion questions found at the end of each chapter. The schedule is: 
    June 27, 2026, 9-10:30 a.m. Central—Part 1: Deceptive Detours (with Preface & Introduction) 
    July 25, 2026, 9-10:30 a.m. Central—Part 2: Empowered by Grace 
    August 22, 2026, 9-10:30 a.m. Central—Part 3: Staying Alert 
    September 26, 2026, 9-10:30 a.m Central—Part 4: Seeds of Change 
    You must register in order to receive the Zoom link to each gathering. The Zoom link will be provided to those who have registered as the first discussion draws near.

RESOURCES

Suicide Prevention for Faith Leaders
    A new video training course is available to equip UMC clergy and faith leaders with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to prevent suicide, respond to crises, and care for individuals and families affected by suicide loss. Developed in partnership with the E. Stanley Jones Foundation. Learn more.

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Breakthrough Ministry Grants | Due July 31
    Applications are open for Breakthrough Minsitry grants, specifically in the areas of outreach ministry, culture of call, young adult/campus ministry, and church/school partnerships. Grant requests for technology will be awarded as they relate to new ministry and not for the replacement of current equipment. Funds for Breakthrough Ministry grants are provided through the generosity of United Methodist Churches across the Dakotas who faithfully give through their apportionments, Foundation funds, Endowments and Annual Conference Miracle Offerings. These grants are exclusively for United Methodist Churches and United Methodist-related Ministries in the Dakotas Conference. Projects supported through Breakthrough Ministry grants include outreach ministries, church/school partnerships, young adult/campus ministries, and culture of call.

These projects/ministries should:

• Be outward-focused (reach beyond the existing membership of the church)
• Create opportunity for relationship-building
• Move people closer to a connection with Christ and the Church

Learn more and apply here. 

Foundation Food Security Grant
    Due to the Generosity of committed donors across the connection, The Dakotas & Minnesota Methodist Foundations are offering one-time grants to churches across the Dakotas that are actively partnered with local schools and non-profits. This funding is intended to support and expand feeding ministries that serve children and families experiencing food insecurity. In the Dakotas, we will award five grants of up to $2,000 each. Funds may be used to support:

• Summer feeding programs that provide meals when school is out of session
• After-school meal programs during the academic year
• Weekend food programs (such as backpack programs) that ensure students have access to food outside of school hours

Applicants must demonstrate an active partnership with a partnering school or nonprofit organization. This collaboration is essential to effectively identify needs, coordinate services, and ensure that food reaches children and families who need it most. Application Deadline: September 1, 2026.

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.
    Non-Traditional Worship Leader | Asbury UMC, Sioux Falls, SD
    Digital Ministries Coordinator | Asbury UMC, Sioux Falls, SD
    Part-Time Nursery Care Worker | Asbury UMC, Sioux Falls, SD
    Part-time Campus Ministry Director | First UMC, Brookings, SD
    Music Coordinator | Flame of Faith UMC, West Fargo, ND
    Sunday School Coordinator | Mitchell Downtown First UMC
    Open Camping Positions | All locations