THIS WEEK!

Phishing scam emails
    We occasionally get reports of “phishing” emails going around. Some say they are from “the bishop” or that they can provide you a list of all the annual conference attendees or other scenarios. These are scam emails. If you are ever uncertain about a correspondence related to the conference or episcopal office, please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly. Thank you!

Are you ready for Annual Conference?
    As you prepare to come to Mitchell this week, don’t forget:
    Conference Workbook
    Map of DWU
    Miracle Offering
    Kits/Items for Midwest Mission

Worship resources for June 8
    This year, our Celebration of Life in Ministry Service—a time when we ordain and commission clergy, recognize those pastors who are retiring, and honor clergy, clergy spouses, and former conference staff who passed away in the last year—will be held on Sunday, June 8, at 10 a.m. CDT at Downtown First UMC in Mitchell, S.D. In order to foster a greater sense of connection and shared ministry on this Pentecost Sunday, we are sharing resources for churches to incorporate into their worship gatherings. These resources parallel the liturgy and music of the Celebration of Life in Ministry Service and are designed to be led by a lay liturgist/worship leader.

St. John's Bible at DWU
     While at Dakota Wesleyan for Annual Conference, be sure to check out all seven volumes of The St. John’s Bible housed in the McGovern Library. Stop by the Library anytime during conference or come for a guided viewing during the 10:00 a.m. or 2:15 p.m. breaks on Friday. The Saint John’s Bible is widely recognized as the only completely hand-written, hand-illuminated Bible in the modern English language to have been produced since the invention of the printing press in the 15th century. The NRSV text includes 160 illustrations of stunning beauty and literary depth. It is regarded as a landmark religious and artistic achievement in the modern era.

AC Walking Challenge
    It’s time for the 8th Annual Ultimate Step Crew Challenge. If you participate in Personify (formerly Virgin Pulse) grab your crew (up to five people) and sign up online for this year’s challenge. Registration opens this Friday, May 23. Steps will be tallied for the week of Annual Conference. Top two teams and Top 10 individual steppers will earn Personify points.

LUKE-ACTS 2025 - Reflections & Resources

Luke-Acts Reading 
     This week we get a powerful glimps of Jesus' humanity as he prays that "this cup", this painful road to the cross, would be taken from him. Yet, Jesus also says, “Not my will, but yours be done,” in deep anguish. How can we follow His example in surrendering our will to God’s—even when it’s hard? What helps you trust God in those moments? Additional Resource: Video telling of The Last Supper

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Clergy Wellness Allowance
    Clergy can apply for up to $500 to support efforts to improve their physical health. The funds must be used for a specific resource or experience. All clergy are encouraged to apply now that the priority consideration period has ended. 

Investing in Leaders Resource Grant
    Clergy, apply by September 1, 2025 for this grant of up to $5,000 to pay down educational debt. Renewal applications are also available for those who have already received this grant.

Join upcoming mission teams to the Dominican Republic
    Julia Jones from Pierre First UMC is leading two mission trips to the Dominican Republic. There are still openings on each team!
Church Camp Construction Trip: September 12-20 (sign up ASAP as plane tickets will be purchased soon!)
Medical Mission trip: November 7-15. Cost is expected to be around $2800.
Participants must be 18+ or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Team members will also need a valid passport and be willing to procure and use the anti-malarial medication of your physician's choice. Call or text Julia Jones (605-280-2670) for more information or to sign up.

JOB ANNOUNCEMENTS | View all Ads

Jobs Available
    We're hiring! The following positions are open across the Dakotas Conference. Find out more information on our Conference website.
    Administrative Assistant & Event Planner | Dakotas & Minnesota United Methodist Foundations
    Summer Staff | Dakotas UM Camps