THIS WEEK

Shoebox Christmas | Nov. 1 Deadline 
    Shoebox Christmas is an opportunity for you to reflect the hope, peace, joy, and love of Christ into our communities this season by helping to ensure that no child feels forgotten on Christmas morning. Each year, Spirit Lake Ministry Center gives away more than 5,000 boxes across the Dakotas and Minnesota. Learn more here. 

DakYouth | Oct. 9-11
    Get ready for DAKYOUTH 2026 in Aberdeen! Youth in grades 6–12 and adult chaperones are invited to gather for a weekend of worship, leadership, discipleship, service and fun around this year’s theme, “Friends” (John 15:12-13). Learn more here.

RESOURCES

Clergy and Church Staff Appreciation Month
    October is Pastor (or Clergy) Appreciation Month with the second Sunday designated as Pastor Appreciation Day. It is a time to say “thank you” to the people who may be most visible as preachers and teachers, but who, in reality, are on-call 24/7 standing with congregants and others to offer spiritual and other support in times of confusion and transition, times of heart-wrenching sorrow and times of overwhelming joy. They laugh, cry and pray with those whom they shepherd and serve. Learn more here. 

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Relax, Refresh, Renew Women’s Retreat 
    Join us October 23-25 at Storm Mountain Center for a weekend apart and a time to relax, refresh and renew your mind and body.  During the weekend you’ll find both group time to build Christian community and time apart in the beauty of creation for Sabbath and renewal. Check out the DakCamps website for more information and to register.

Trauma-Informed Leadership Course | Beginning October 26
    How can we lead with greater awareness, care, and responsiveness? The Garrett Collective is offering Trauma-Informed Leadership, a course designed to help leaders understand the impact of trauma and explore practices for creating healthier, more supportive congregations and communities. Participants will gain practical tools and insights for engaging others with greater compassion and awareness. Learn more and register.

Am I On Track? A Financial Check-In for Mid-Career Pastors | Oct. 27, 10:00 a.m. CT 
    A Virtual Workshop offered by Seth Scott, Shepherd’s Wallet. Most pastors in the middle of ministry are carrying a question nobody can answer for them: am I where I should be financially, and if I'm not, how far behind am I? This session answers it.  You'll run a short diagnostic on your own numbers and leave with a target savings rate specific to your situation, along with a worksheet to finish at home. Learn more about this virtual webinar here. 

Extending Missional Impact Grants | Deadline Oct. 31
    The Dakotas Methodist Foundation is now accepting applications for fourth-quarter Extending Missional Impact Grants. United Methodist churches and ministry partners across the Dakotas are encouraged to apply by Oct. 31 for support that strengthens ministries, responds to community needs and helps churches extend their reach.
    Extending Missional Impact Grants of up to $2,500 are awarded quarterly to help congregations and ministry partners build on meaningful work already underway and pursue new opportunities for connection and service. Learn more and apply at the Extending Missional Impact Grants webpage.

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.
    Coordinator of Youth Ministries | Yankton First UMC, Yankton, SD
    Music Coordinator | Flame of Faith UMC, West Fargo, ND