THIS WEEK

Dynamite Prayer | Jan. 14-Feb. 10
    Welcome to the Dakotas-Minnesota Area Dynamite Prayer Initiative! This effort began Sunday, Jan. 14. Week one the focus is Holy Spirit Impact. Access week one resources. Here are resources to help you infuse prayer into the life of your congregation over this 28-day period.

2024 Lay Academy | Apply by January 17
    Calling lay persons who are interested in strengthening their knowledge and skills around planning, preparing and leading the spoken parts of worship, including the message. Apply to be part of the February cohort beginning, Feb. 2 at 6 p.m. CST, 5 p.m. MST through Feb. 3, 4 p.m., CST, 3 p.m. MST. by January 17. Get the details and apply.

Candidate Forum | Jan. 23
    Are you unsure of all the steps and what is next on your journey as a candidate for ministry?  Do you know someone who might be a great candidate for ministry but you are not quite sure of all of the information they may need? Attend the candidate forum on Jan. 23. Get the details.

COMING UP

Clergy Preaching cohort | January start
    Beginning in mid-January a second round of Preaching Cohorts will begin. These groups of 3-4 clergy meet together to help one another become better preachers. We watch and evaluate one another's sermons and give constructive input on what went well, and areas in which the preacher could improve. Each person sets their own goals and areas in which they wish to grow. Contact Rev. Teresa Whetsel if you are interested pastorteresaw@gmail.com. View participant comments and details.

Winter Connection | January 26-27
    Winter Connection is an opportunity for youth to gather, share, worship, and serve others. Our theme for 2024 is "Be Bold, Be Fearless," and our scripture is Deuteronomy 31:6. Winter Connection will be held in Fargo, Mitchell, and Rapid City. Learn more and register.

Fresh Expressions National Gathering | Feb. 7-9
    Fresh Expressions National Gathering is Feb. 7-9, in Charlotte, North Carolina. This event is a great opportunity for those interested in cultivating a fresh expression in their community. Bishop Lanette will be there too! Use discount code FXDKMN for $80 off your registration.

Clergy invited to spend time at camp
    As Dakotas United Methodist clergy, you have a special benefit gifted from the Dakotas Conference of the United Methodist Church Board of Pensions. In appreciation of your ministry and acknowledgment that you deserve some time away, you are invited to schedule a personal retreat and/or a family vacation for the members of your immediate household at your favorite Dakotas United Methodist Camp! You may stay up to a total of two weeks each year for FREE at any of the three locations.

Fresh Expression Coaching calls | Jan. 25 plus more
    Hop on a Zoom call to connect with others about Fresh Expression. The coaching calls are Jan. 25, Feb. 29, March 28, April 25, June 27, July 25, and Aug. 29, 6:30 p.m., online. Monthly coaching sessions are for Fresh Expressions practitioners and their teams and are facilitated by Rev. Michael Beck. Share stories, ideas, and support. Get the details.

2024 Lent Study | Multiplying Love
    Join Bishop Lanette Plambeck and the Dakotas and Minnesota Conference Cabinets this Lent for a video study. Explore the power of the Wesleyan approach to the gospel and a compelling case for the future of The United Methodist Church. 

S.D. Interfaith Day | Feb. 12
    Join faith leaders, for a day at the Capitol as we stand in solidarity and pray for peace for everyone who calls South Dakota home. The annual Interfaith Day at the State Capitol in Pierre for the 2024 Legislative Session is Feb. 15 beginning at 9 a.m. Get the details.

Exploration 2024 | Feb. 16-18
    Exploration, is being held in Orlando, Feb. 16-18. It is a gathering, hosted by The United Methodist Church, that creates sacred space for young adults, ages 18-26, to be in meaningful fellowship, passionate worship, theological reflection, and practical workshops as they discern God's call on their life, how ministry in and with The United Methodist Church might be a part of that call, and what faithful steps they can take in response.

SPRC Training | Feb. 22
    If you have new members to your Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC), or have recently received a new pastor, or haven't been through a training in a while, join an online (Zoom) training on February 22, at 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Confirmation Camp | March 1-2, 2024
    Confirmation Camp at Lake Poinsett is scheduled for March 1-2! Let Rev. Valerie Hummel LaBounty know if you are interested in helping in any capacity. You and your confirmation crew are invited to join!

RESOURCES

2024 IRS mileage rate
    The IRS issues standard mileage rates for 2024 increases to 67 cents a mile, up 1.5 cents from 2023. Learn more.

Interfaith Clergy Debt Relief Program
    Clergy can borrow up to $20,000 to alleviate high interest debt. This program is made possible through partnership with Wespath as part of their Financial Well-Being Initiative. Learn more.

JOB ANNOUNCEMENTS | View all Ads

Jobs Available
    We're hiring! Take a look at the job announcements across the Dakotas Conference. Get the details on jobs available at these Conference churches and organizations.

Accompanist | Ben Clare UMC
    Ben Clare UMC near Valley Springs, S.D. is looking for a musical accompaniment for 9 a.m. traditional service and special services. The music includes, but not limited to: hymns, prelude and postlude, offertory, special music. If interested, please send your resume to: kristaducker@gmail.com. Get more details.

Camping Position Opening | Lake Poinsett Maintenance Ministry
    This is a full-time, exempt position that includes on-site housing, benefits, and meals provided when guests are present. Anticipated start date of January 2024, though start date can be flexible. A full job description can be found here.

Discipleship Ministries Coordinator | Evergreen UMC
    Evergreen UMC in Wahpeton, N.D., is hiring a Discipleship Ministries Coordinator. Evergreen UMC is looking for a high energy, enthusiastic individual who loves engaging with children, youth and young adults and also is super crazy about Jesus!! Please contact Pastor Kori Lehrkamp or the church office for more information.

ITEMS AVAILABLE

Piano to give away 
    Free Yamaha piano in excellent condition. The dimensions are 161 cm. by 149 cm. Interested person should contact Jessica Lynch via email at jflynch21@outlook.com. View photos.