Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, South Dakota was home for 75 participants and “flat Jesus” at Mission u southern site July 9-12, 2015. Participants gathered for learning, worship and fellowship. Everyone in attendance was encouraged to have his or her photo taken with “flat Jesus” and donate to Imagine No Malaria.

Photo: Katie Peterson, Deaconess, Church and Community Worker for Out in Faith--Bakken Oil Rush Ministry poses for a "selfie" with two versions of "flat Jesus." Participants at the Mission u- southern site, were encouraged to get his or her photo taken with "flat Jesus" and donate to Imagine No Malaria.  Over $500 was raised.  Submitted photo.

Classes included “Created for happiness: Understanding your life in God”, “Latin America: People and faith” and “The church and people with disabilities”. 

Lennie Symes, Rapid City First UMC, led the spiritual growth study “Created for Happiness:  Understanding your life in God”.  Participants examined the understanding of happiness and how to live the life that God calls us to.

Gloria Borgman, Spearfish UMC, led the geographic study “Latin America--People and faith”.  Participants learned about cultural identity, language, history and even religious affinity of the Latin American region.

Rev. Linda Baldock, White River and Mission UMC, led the issue study “The church and people with disabilities”. The study touched the heart as well as informed and prompted action. Topics ranged from Biblical perspectives to overviews of living with and adapting to varying disabilities.

Photo:  Gloria Borgman presents "Latin America--People and and faith" at Mission u held on the campus of Dakota Wesleyan University, July 19-12.  Photo by Dakotas Conference Communications.

Other presenters at Mission u included Katie Peterson, Deaconess, Church and Community Worker, serving at Williston, North Dakota.  Katie leads Out in Faith- Bakken Oil Rush Ministry through Faith United Methodist Church in Williston. 

Renae Peterson of Marshall, Minnesota also presented information about Emma Norton Services (ENS), a United Methodist Women’s mission in St. Paul, Minnesota. ENS provides affordable housing, basic needs support services in an environment that fosters stability and encourages personal growth.

Faithful Servants, for 7-12 grade students was lead by Pat Siefken, Conde UMC and Rev. Scott McKirdy, Spearfish UMC.  Campers enjoyed swimming, Bible studies and movies.  Students in grades 3-6 participated in “Missions for Me” led by Colleen McKirdy, Spearfish UMC. 

The northern site Mission u will be held at Jamestown University at Jamestown, North Dakota July 16-19.