Christmas across the Dakotas Conference
The best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear!
Hettinger UMC youth went caroling and delivered cards to the residents and staff at the nursing home and the assisted living facility.
Canton (SD) UMC Chi Alpha kids went caroling at the Good Samaritan Center.
A Spirit of Generosity
Churches across the Dakotas found ways to give back to their communities.
ARK UMC in North Sioux City, South Dakota, gathered donations from the community to create their annual Kids Free Shopping Spree. This small church is making a big impact through this event that gives children in kindergarten through fifth grade the chance to “shop” for Christmas gifts for their parents and siblings at no cost. Volunteers wrapped over 100 gifts to share with 35–40 children and 20–30 families from the community. They also received a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus!
Minot Vincent UMC
On the other corner of the Conference, Vincent United Methodist Church in Minot, North Dakota, served over 1000 people as part of their Miracle of Christmas. Event organizers from the congregation solicited donations from community groups, businesses, and individuals. Guests of the event have the opportunity to "shop", have their gift wrapped, and also enjoy a meal. As they described on their Facebook page, "The line wrapped around the Moose lodge, the gifts flew off the tables, and Santa nearly lost his voice. Joy everywhere, smiles nonstop, and hearts full!" and "Our volunteers were unstoppable, the kids shopped like pros, and Santa’s photo line moved faster than North Pole Wi-Fi. Laughter everywhere, wrapping paper flying, Christmas magic overflowing. What a night!" This is the fourth year of the event.
Kid's Christmas Programs
It's that time of year when the children and youth of our churches get to share their gifts with the congregation.
United Church of Faulkton & Bismarck McCabe
Jamestown First and Bismarck Legacy
Members from Virgil & Alpena play Mary & Joseph.
Fellowship and Fun
The Christmas season also brings with it extra opportunities for fellowship and fun. Members from Virgil United Methodist Church and the United Parish of Alpena in South Dakota played the roles of Mary and Joseph in the play "Casting Call" at the Huron Community Campus Theatre. The one-act play is a humorous story of people auditioning for a live nativity while learning the true meaning of Christmas.
Members of Beresford Zion UMC
In Beresford, South Dakota, members of all ages from Zion United Methodist Church headed to the Nora Store. The Nora Store, built in 1907, has been refurbished and outfitted in full Christmas fashion. The outing was an opportunity for folks to gather for a night of fellowship and fun as they sang carols and shared in Christmas Cheer.
