NEW THIS WEEK!

Pre-Conference webinars
    Don’t forget to attend one of the pre-conference webinars this week! Webinars will be held Tuesday (5/27), Thursday (5/29), and Sunday (6/1) evenings at 7 p.m. CDT / 6 p.m. MT. Zoom links will be emailed to all registrants. If you have not yet registered for annual conference, please email Susan Punt to get the webinar link. Also, be sure to access the Conference workbook.

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.

Wesleyan Heritage Tour
     Join students, alumni, and friends of Dakota Wesleyan University for the Wesleyan Heritage Tour, June 17-25, 2026. This trip will offer a transformative journey of faith, learning, and renewal as participants travel together to the historic heart of Methodism. As we walk in the footsteps of John Wesley, Charles Wesley, and the early leaders of our movement, we will deepen our appreciation for the spiritual courage, theological insight, and social conviction that shaped the Methodist tradition. Itinerary includes: Epworth, Cotswolds and Stratford, Oxford, Bristol and Bath, and London. Contact Dr. Joel Allen for more information.

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.

LUKE-ACTS 2025 - Reflections & Resources

Luke-Acts Reading 
     In chapter 21, begins with Jesus lifting up the story of the poor widow expressing an act of generosity and sacrifice. It is a powerful example of the self-giving nature of following Jesus. He then pivots to discussing the signs of the end times. How can we have a posture of "watching and praying" amidst the chaos and challenges of life? Additional resource: Part two of the interview with Dakotas elder and comentary author, Rev. Dr. Shelly Matthews

RESOURCES

Clergy transitions
    A pastoral transition is one of the most impactful seasons in the life of a church. Whether a pastor retires, resigns, or is appointed to another ministry, the transition can stir a wide range of emotions—grief, uncertainty, anxiety, excitement, and even division. How church leadership manages this process plays a crucial role in the emotional and spiritual health of the congregation for years to come. This article form the Lewis Center for Church Leadership provides ways to care for your congregation in this time.

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

Clergy Wellness Allowance
    Summer is a great time to focus upon improving your physical health and well-being. We are excited to offer eligible clergy (clergy appointed (or CLM assigned) as a pastor to a local church or extension ministry actively serving in the Dakotas or Minnesota Conferences) the 2025 Clergy Wellness Allowance. The wellness allowance is for a specific resource or experience that supports physical well-being. Apply here now!

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.

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