NEW THIS WEEK!

Camp Registration opens January 16
    Tired of the cold weather? Set your sites on warmer days ahead by planning to attend church camp! Our United Methodist camps provide a great opportunity for people of all ages to experience Christ, Community, and Creation! Registration opens Thursday, January 16. Check out the website or contact the Camping Office for more information.

FX Third Thursdays
    Welcome to 2025! Join us on Thursday the January 16th at 6:30 p.m. (CT)  for our Third Thursday discussion where we will share our bold ideas and/or goals for new Fresh Expressions. We will also spend some time workshopping ideas and sharing resources. Third Thursday's take place from 6:30-7:30 p.m. CT. Use this zoom link to join us. Join our Facebook group for more updates here.

RAGBRAI team
    The Iowa Conference has announced an exciting new opportunity for connection and discipleship—the #WeAreUMC RAGBRAI Team! Each summer, cyclists from around the world join RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) for a week-long, 500-mile journey across Iowa, celebrating community, resilience, and shared experiences. This year, the IAUMC is extending an invitation to United Methodist Conferences nationwide to spread the word and invite riders to join our team, creating a faith-centered presence at this incredible event. This initiative is more than just a week-long event—it’s an opportunity for discipleship, fellowship, and service, building meaningful connections along the way. Join the email list and Facebook group to learn more.

LUKE-ACTS 2025 - Reflections & Resources

    This week, we continue our journey through Luke-Acts with the familiar stories of the journey to Bethlehem and the shepherds' encounter with the choir of angels, as well as some lesser-known characters of Anna and Simeon. We hear stories of rejoicing--the angels, the shepherds, Simeon, Anna. Take some time this week to reflect on how Jesus' presence in your life has been good news to you and a source of great joy. Engage in activities that help you delight in this gift of joy. Additional resource: Enjoying the Company

RESOURCES

GBHEM Scholarship - Deadline March 31
    The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) scholarship application portal is open for United Methodist students seeking scholarships for undergraduate and graduate study. Potential scholarships awarded range from $500 to $1,200. The Scholarships Office administers more than 70 scholarship programs with one general application. Students may submit one application per year, which will be screened for the appropriate scholarship program. The deadline to complete the application is Monday, March 31, 2025. Email umscholar@gbhem.org for more information or check out their website.

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Winter Connection
    Winter Connection is an opportunity for youth to gather, share, worship, and serve others. Our theme for 2025 is: Don't be a Jerk: Love Everyone. Our scripture is John 3:16-17. Don't take love for granted. Recognize God's love - which encompasses you and your neighbor.
    Make sure to bring a sleeping bag, pillow, toiletries, weather appropriate clothing, winter jacket, and gear. Apply here. 
*Note for Southeast site attendees: CCYM members are asking for chuch and personal donations of toothpaste, toothbrushes, wash cloths, socks, and deodorant for "Home For Now" (Mitchell's homeless support and resource group). Please only donate items on the list provided above.
 

2025 Conference Lenten Study - The Third Day by Bishop Tom Berlin
    In this six-week study, Bishop Tom Berlin uses his gifts of storytelling and understanding the Scriptures to connect the reader to the experiences of several individuals around Jesus in his final days, focusing on new life and redemption rather than loss. Join Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they feel the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study traces events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives. Videos by the Appointive Cabinet and other members of the Conference will be provided for each week of the study.

Strategy-Visioning cohort
    Dreaming, strategizing and visioning forward can be overwhelming if you are unsure where to begin. The Equipping Missional Congregations Link is looking for 6-8 pastors who believe that they and their church(es) are ready to Dream forward. Beginning Thursday January 30th, they will launch a 6-month pilot cohort focused on moving your congregation forward in a healthy and strategic way. If you are interested in being a part of this cohort please submit the brief questionnaire here! We are looking forward to partnering with you as you dream, strategize and vision forward!

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.
    Facilities Manager | Lake Poinsett Camp
    Custodian | Downtown First UMC, Mitchell, SD
    Youth & Children's Ministry Coordinator | Sunnycrest UMC, Sioux Falls, SD