THIS WEEK!

Clergy Learning Scholarship Opportunities
    The Daktoas 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.

Youth Mental Health First Aid Training | August 1
    Adults who work with or care about youth are invited to attend a free Youth Mental Health First Aid Training on Saturday, August 1, from 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CDT at Downtown First UMC in Mitchell, SD. This training will equip participants to recognize the signs of mental health challenges, respond with confidence, and connect young people with the support they need. Lunch is provided. Registration is required by July 24. To register, contact Lana Loken at lloken@resilienttoday.org.

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.

RESOURCES

Mustard Seed Grants
    Now accepted on a rolling basis, UMC churches in the U.S. can apply for a grant to help immigrants, migrants and refugees living in their local communities. UMCOR’s Mustard Seed Migration Grant program provides congregations with up to $2,000 for a one-time, community-based service project. Learn more and apply here.

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Register for Exploration 2026 
    Interested in ordained ministry? Attend Exploration, a vocational discernment retreat hosted by GBHEM, is set for November 6-8 in Orlando, Florida. With a blend of theological reflection, practical workshops, and networking opportunities, Exploration offers participants the tools and relationships needed to take next steps. Attendees connect with denominational leaders and resources while joining peers who are asking similar questions about their future. Registration is now open for adults 18 and older. Learn more and register. Scholarship support is available through the Dakotas Conference Board of Ordained Ministry. Contact Susan Punt for more info.

Breakthrough Ministry Grants | Apply by July 31
    Applications are open for Breakthrough Ministry grants, specifically in the areas of outreach ministry, culture of call, young adult/campus ministry, and church/school partnerships. Grant requests for technology will be awarded as they relate to new ministry and not for the replacement of current equipment. Funds for Breakthrough Ministry grants are provided through the generosity of United Methodist Churches across the Dakotas who faithfully give through their apportionments, Foundation funds, Endowments, and Annual Conference Miracle Offerings. These grants are exclusively for United Methodist Churches and United Methodist-related Ministries in the Dakotas Conference. Projects supported through Breakthrough Ministry grants include outreach ministries, church/school partnerships, young adult/campus ministries, and culture of call.

These projects/ministries should:

• Be outward-focused (reach beyond the existing membership of the church)
• Create opportunity for relationship-building
• Move people closer to a connection with Christ and the Church

Learn more and apply here. 

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
    Sunday School Coordinator | Mitchell Downtown First UMC
    Administrative Assistant | Wesley UMC, Sioux Falls, SD
    Open Camping Positions | All locations