THIS WEEK!

Fresh Expressions in the Dakotas | Monthly Zoom Meetup, August 20
    Fresh Expressions are growing in the Dakotas! In the spirit of Wesley himself, these new ways of being the church happen outside our walls, cultivating communities of love and grace for those who’ve been neglected by the church. They are inclusive, accessible, transformative, and connectional. Interested in learning more? Have an idea for a new form of church in your community? We’re launching a monthly meet-up over Zoom for anyone interested in learning how to start a Fresh Expression, how to create a culture that encourages experimentation, and how to ignite a holy imagination that allows Fresh Expressions to thrive. Our first meeting is August 20 at 7pm CT (6pm MT). We’ll be hearing from Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, authors of “Dream, Dare, Disrupt: How Experiments, Risk, and Embracing Failure Can Build Life-Giving Ministry.” Sign up today and let’s start dreaming together!

Form I-9 Training | August 12, 1:00 p.m. CDT
    Have questions about managing I‑9s for your new hires? We’ve got you covered. Join our concise, practical training designed specifically for supervisors, managers, and administrative staff responsible for completing Form I‑9. This session will break down each step of the I‑9 process, from proper completion and documentation review to common mistakes and compliance best practices, so you can confidently handle employment eligibility verification. Walk away with clear guidance and tools you can use immediately to stay accurate and compliant in your Form I-9 process. Register here. 

Scripture Circles for Clergy & Laity | September start
    Scripture Circles for Clergy will take place Mondays, beginning Sept. 14 at 10:30 a.m. CT, or Tuesdays, beginning Sept. 15 at 10:30 a.m. spanning 10 weeks, online. On Mondays beginning Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. CT a circle for laity will be held online for 10 weeks. Join together to discuss and savor the original language and context of scripture in these small group experiences through a combination of spiritual direction and deep bible study. Register now to reserve your spot. A $100 discount is available for those clergy new to Scripture Circles. 

RESOURCES

Small group app now offers Henri Nouwen study
    The BeADisciple Study App provides the small group infrastructure to help your church host its own small groups in a new and more flexible way, giving groups everything they need in an app-based format.

• Disciple Fast Track I: a 24-week Bible study from Genesis to Revelation, easily facilitated by lay people. Known to dramatically increase both Biblical literacy and volunteerism in your church.
• NEW! Henri Nouwen’s Following Jesus: Finding Home in an Age of Anxiety: a six-week study of the book with embedded daily prayer practices and videos clips of Nouwen from the Henri Nouwen Society.

Informational webinars, opportunities to preview the app, and personal coaching for your church’s leaders are all available. For more information, visit BeADiscipleApp.com/summer2026

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Clergy Learning Scholarship Opportunities
    The Dakotas Annual Conference invests in leadership development of clergy. There are two events still open for scholarships. You must complete the scholarship application form to receive funds. Appointed clergy are eligible for one scholarship in 2026. Additional funds may be available upon request.

NCJ Mission Council Grant Applications Open
    The North Central Jurisdiction (NCJ) Mission Council is now accepting applications for 2027 Mission Council Grants. Grants of up to $15,000 are available for ministries and programs that involve at least three NCJ annual conferences, align with one or more of The United Methodist Church's four priorities, and support the NCJ's vision of Beloved Community. Applications are open through September 7, 2026. Learn more about eligibility requirements and apply online on the NCJ Mission Council website.

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
    Coordinator of Youth Ministries | Yankton First UMC, Yankton, SD
    Music Coordinator | Flame of Faith UMC, West Fargo, ND
    Open Camping Positions | All locations