THIS WEEK!

A Tax Message from GCFA
    The IRS recently issued new rules for group tax exemption rulings. These changes don’t affect day-to-day operations or tax-exempt status for United Methodist churches, but they do require GCFA to send an annual notice to all UMC churches about tax-exempt status. Read the full notice here. For questions, please contact Jim Ducker.

Investing in Leaders Resource Grant | Due Aug. 1
    During these times of financial strain - increases in the cost of housing, groceries, gas, and healthcare - the monthly bill amounts that do not change can feel oppressive. If you have educational debt - undergrad, graduate, seminary - apply for the Investing in Leaders Resource Grant open now. Grants up to $5000 may be awarded to reduce your student loan debt if you have been under appointment for at least one year by August 1, 2026. Review the application guidelines for first-time applicants and prior recipients. Reducing one financial stressor around debt is worth the time it will take to apply!

Bishop's Summer Book Study | Session one recap
    Thank you to everyone who joined us for the first session of Bishop Lanette's book study on "Building Beloved Community: The Courage to Love in the Face of Tyranny" from the Council of Bishops. Together they explored what it means to live as faithful disciples in a time that calls for wisdom, discernment, and hope. The conversation centered not on politics, but on Scripture, asking how the authority of Jesus Christ shapes our understanding of leadership, the character of Christ, and our witness in the world. The next session will be held July 25, 2026, 9-10:30 a.m. Central Time on Zoom.  All are welcome! Mark your calendar and encourage others to join you. Order your book or e-book now! You must register in order to receive the Zoom link to each gathering.

RESOURCES

UMCOM Pastoral Change Webinar | July 8, 11am CT
    In the United Methodist Church, pastoral transitions happen on a set timeline - and for many congregations and incoming pastors, that window between appointment and move-in day can feel very short. How a church communicates that change, both internally and to the broader community, shapes how well everyone lands on the other side. This UMCOM webinar brings together a communications professional, a church's Chief Admin Officer, and a pastor who has lived through the transition firsthand. Together, the panel will cover how to communicate a pastoral change to your congregation and community, how to write and distribute a press release, and how to create the smoothest transition possible for everyone involved. Register here.

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Breakthrough Ministry Grants | Due July 31
    Applications are open for Breakthrough Ministry grants, specifically in the areas of outreach ministry, culture of call, young adult/campus ministry, and church/school partnerships. Grant requests for technology will be awarded as they relate to new ministry and not for the replacement of current equipment. Funds for Breakthrough Ministry grants are provided through the generosity of United Methodist Churches across the Dakotas who faithfully give through their apportionments, Foundation funds, Endowments, and Annual Conference Miracle Offerings. These grants are exclusively for United Methodist Churches and United Methodist-related Ministries in the Dakotas Conference. Projects supported through Breakthrough Ministry grants include outreach ministries, church/school partnerships, young adult/campus ministries, and culture of call.

These projects/ministries should:

• Be outward-focused (reach beyond the existing membership of the church)
• Create opportunity for relationship-building
• Move people closer to a connection with Christ and the Church

Learn more and apply here. 

Register for Exploration 2026 
    Interested in ordained ministry? Attend Exploration, a vocational discernment retreat hosted by GBHEM, is set for November 6-8 in Orlando, Florida. With a blend of theological reflection, practical workshops, and networking opportunities, Exploration offers participants the tools and relationships needed to take next steps. Attendees connect with denominational leaders and resources while joining peers who are asking similar questions about their future. Registration is now open for adults 18 and older. Learn more and register. Scholarship support is available through the Dakotas Conference Board of Ordained Ministry. Contact Susan Punt for more info.

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
    Music Coordinator | Flame of Faith UMC, West Fargo, ND
    Sunday School Coordinator | Mitchell Downtown First UMC
    Open Camping Positions | All locations