Beata Ferris , a member of Pierre First UMC, Rev. Melissa Gall, a newly ordained deacon led a retreat for seminary students before the start of the 2019  Dakotas Annual Conference, in Bismarck, North Daktoa. As coordinator for the event they shared some insights and activities. 

Seminary students take a few moments to catch up. Photo by jlynn studios.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, young adults and seminary students from across the Dakotas gathered at Legacy UMC for the annual Seminarians and Young Adult Retreat. 

Tuesday night featured a meal shared with the New Clergy group, and then time with Bishop Ough and Char. The group was able to ask the Bishop open questions, covering a variety of ministry, life, and leadership topics. 

One of our favorite moments was when participant, Dylan Dethlefsen, claimed he had “discerned himself to death,” to which God “kicked him out of the nest like a baby bird” (his words, not ours!) “and said *with a kick of his foot* ‘Boop! It’s time to fly’!” 

Another favorite moment was when seminary student, Taylor Johnson, asked the Bishop, “What is the last new thing you’ve learned?”…which – for a moment – stumped the Bishop. This is a good question for all of us to reflect on.

Wednesday morning we gathered again at Legacy UMC for a yogurt bar breakfast and then continued open discussion from the night before. After pondering Dylan’s quote from Tuesday, Taylor reminded us that we are resurrection people, and after “discerning ourselves to death,” God raises new life in our ministries.

The teaching portion of the retreat focused on financial health. Diane Owen, representative from the Lilly Grant, joined us to share best practices regarding debt, stewardship, and long-term financial goals. 

We finished the retreat time at the table as we shared in Holy Communion with each other. Rev. Kori Lehrkamp presided and reminded us that communion is a meal that frees us from bondage. This time together is valuable for fellowship and support as the Dakotas Conference Seminarians and Young Adults make connections and build relationships.