THIS WEEK!

Bishop's Summer Book Study | July 25, 9:00 a.m. CT / 8:00 a.m. MT
    Join us for session two of a 2026 Summer Book Study led by Bishop Lanette. In this Area-wide study, United Methodists across the Dakotas and Minnesota are invited to read "Building Beloved Community: The Courage to Love in the Face of Tyranny" by The United Methodist Council of Bishops. Through biblical reflection, global perspectives, and practical strategies, participants will discern faithful responses to local challenges while connecting to the worldwide struggle for justice and peace. Discussions will be held via Zoom on the fourth Saturday morning in June, July, August, and September, from 9-10:30 a.m. CT / 8-9:30 a.m. MT, centering largely on the discussion questions found at the end of each chapter. You must register to receive the Zoom link to each gathering. Order your book or e-book now!

Embodied Practices online gathering | Monday, July 27, Noon CT / 11 a.m. MT
    Our next Embodied Practices online gathering will be Monday, July 27. Clergy are invited to engage in these facilitated opportunities to slow down, care for yourself, and receive support. Join every month, or just when it fits. Register here for this monthly recurring virtual session. There is no charge. Check out this video for more info.

RESOURCES

Feeding Our Neighbor | Applications Due July 31
    As hunger and economic uncertainty increase across the U.S., Global Ministries is relaunching its Feeding Our Neighbors program for UMC feeding ministries. Applications will now be accepted directly from annual conferences to support the food pantries and feeding ministries of their churches. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2026. Learn more and apply. 

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.

Foundation Food Security Grant | Due Sept. 1
    Due to the Generosity of committed donors across the connection, The Dakotas & Minnesota Methodist Foundations are offering one-time grants to churches across the Dakotas that are actively partnered with local schools and non-profits. This funding is intended to support and expand feeding ministries that serve children and families experiencing food insecurity. In the Dakotas, we will award five grants of up to $2,000 each. Funds may be used to support:

• Summer feeding programs that provide meals when school is out of session
• After-school meal programs during the academic year
• Weekend food programs (such as backpack programs) that ensure students have access to food outside of school hours

Applicants must demonstrate an active partnership with a partnering school or nonprofit organization. This collaboration is essential to effectively identify needs, coordinate services, and ensure that food reaches children and families who need it most. Application Deadline: September 1, 2026.

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