THIS WEEK

NCJ Mission Council Grant | Due Sept. 7
    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.

Amplify/Technology Connection Grants
    The Dakotas Connection Initiative is offering grants to help rural churches access the Amplify Dakotas Channel and connect with other churches to share technology, resources, and services. Grants may support necessary hardware, peripheral equipment, or internet service, but are not intended to replace outdated technology. Apply here. Amplify Dakotas is free for at least the next three years and currently has 339 subscribers! Subscribe for free or contact Beata Ferris with questions.

2026 Advent Study with Bishop Lanette | Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, and 21, 7-8:15 p.m., online.
    Save the date for this beloved tradition! This Advent, join Bishop Lanette Plambeck for When Hope Is Born, a four-session journey through Scripture exploring the sacred work of midwifery: noticing what God is bringing to life, tending what is vulnerable, making room for what is emerging, and courageously participating in the birth of hope. Learn more here. 

RESOURCES

Update to UMC Proper Insurance Standards
    The General Council on Finance and Administration (GCFA) has approved changes to the Proper Insurance Coverage Standards. The changes were made following a review of commercial insurance offerings, policies sold through the United Methodist Insurance Program (UMIP), programs and recommendations offered by our Annual Conferences and other denominations, and considerations related to the need for proper coverage.

    Churches in states with monopolistic workers compensation programs (North Dakota, Ohio, Washington, and Wyoming) should be aware that their policies do not include employers liability and they should purchase this coverage separately. Lower limits of misconduct coverage may be purchased if the state limits damage, but churches should also be aware that legal fees are a significant part of any claim. View the full standard here. 

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Let's Preach 2026-27
    Clergy, The Dakotas-Minnesota Area of The UMC invites you to grow your preaching skills. Join two great opportunities to continue learning. Attend the PREACH! 2026 gathering, then participate as a small group in Let's Preach! throughout 2026 and 2027.

Save the Date! Dog-Eared Disciples | Beginning 9-10:30 a.m. CDT, online
    Save the date for this book study initiative from Bishop Lanette Plambeck. Registration and more details will be available in coming weeks.

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