THIS WEEK!

Youth Worker Awards nominations DUE THIS WEEK
    Do you know someone in your church or in the conference who has made an impact on the youth of the Dakotas and their journey with Christ? Nominate them for one of the following awards presented at annual conference. Nomination deadline is February 26.

• Youth Worker Hall of Fame—This award honors outstanding individuals who have committed a lifetime to serving Jesus Christ through youth ministry.  Criteria: 20 years or more of working with United Methodist youth, has not previously been inducted into the Hall of Fame, and not currently serving as an adult member of the CCYM. Nominate someone here.
• Darrel Leach Youth Worker of the Year Award—This award honors outstanding individuals who are currently serving Jesus Christ in youth ministry. Criteria nominees are: must currently be working with United Methodist youth in some capacity —volunteer, paid staff or clergy,  and is not currently serving as an adult member of CCYM. Nominate someone here.
   

Elisha/Samuel Intern applications | due March 1
    Do you know a young adult or older high school student who has gifts for ministry or is sensing God's call in their lives? Encourage them to apply for an Elisha or Samuel internship. These internship programs allow students to explore, discern their call, and discuss where God is calling them while getting a taste of church and pastoral ministry.  Applications are being accepted until March 1. Churches interested in hosting an intern should contact their district superintendent. 

Annual Conference Awards
    Several awards will be announced at annual conference. Nominations are due March 27. Nominations for the following awards are now being accepted:

• The Foundation for Evangelism Laity Award is jointly presented by denominational regional bodies (annual conference, district, etc) and the Foundation. The award honors lay persons with exceptional evangelistic ministries that bring people into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ, encourage continued discipleship, and emphasize living out one’s faith in daily life. Nominate someone here. 
• The Francis Asbury Award recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to fostering the church's ministries in higher education at the local, district, or annual conference level of the church. Nominate someone here.
• The Streams of Justice Award calls attention to a United Methodist sponsored program or event which promotes justice in our Annual Conference. Ministries on Native American reservations, local churches and outreach centers in communities (rural and urban), and state-wide and regional organizations which have programs that offer components of justice education, advocacy and empowerment in addition to material assistance and spiritual support are encouraged. Submit nominations here. 
• NEW AWARD! #BeUMC Award, presented by the Dakotas Conference and UM Communications, honors one church, one layperson, and one clergy member each year who exemplify the spirit and mission of the United Methodist Church: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Recipients of this award should also reflect our shared UMC vision - to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. Submit nominations here. 

Annual Conference 2026 Resolutions and Petitions | due March 27
    Do you have a resolution, petition, or specific legislation you would like to have considered at the 2026 Dakotas Annual Conference All proposals for petitions and resolutions for the Dakotas Annual Conference Session must be submitted electronically, by March 27. Items should be created using the Legislation Submission form. If you have questions about resolutions and petitions, you may contact Rev. Rebecca Trefz by e-mail or phone 605-990-7781. The Dakotas Conference Petitions and Resolution Committee will review submissions before being placed on the agenda for consideration at the upcoming Session of the Dakotas Annual Conference.

Practical Church Leadership Certification Program |
Applications due May 1
    Apply by May 1 for this year-long, online certificate program designed to increase a pastor's capacity to be an effective church leader and improve skills in financial stewardship and human resource management and development. The program is offered through Dakota Wesleyan University. Contact Diane Owen for more information.

RESOURCES

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

GBHEM Scholarship portal | Applications close March 6
    GBHEM Scholarships offers financial aid to United Methodist students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Every year, an average of $4 million is awarded to help students in the United States and abroad pursue their dreams through higher education. With this financial aid, GBHEM is opening pathways for students of all backgrounds to earn their degrees and serve as the next generation of leaders for the church and the world. Learn more and apply.

2026 Lenten study resources available now!
    The Dakotas Cabinet, in partnership with other clergy in the conference, has created a six-week Lenten study based on the healing stories of Jesus – “To Be Made Well”. In a time in our world where hurt, fear, and trauma are a part of our daily lives, these stories are meant to draw us back to the Great Physician, the source of healing, Jesus Christ. Resources include videos, small group study materials, worship resources, and graphics, and can be accessed through Amplify Dakotas or the Conference website. 

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.
    Part-time Campus Ministry Director | First UMC, Brookings, SD
    Open Camping Positions | All locations