"Churches are not immune to the digital era. Technology has become ubiquitous. It pervades almost every interaction we have on any given day," states Benjamin Windle in his publication, Digital Church in a Lonely World. 

There has been much discussion about how the Covid-19 pandemic has changed the work experience, and we would be remiss if we didn't look at how it has changed how we do ministry in the Dakotas. 

Meetings, a cornerstone of our work together, look different during the pandemic, and it's not just because they're virtual. While we can debate whether the changes have been positive or negative, they are undeniable and likely to remain with us long after the pandemic subsides.

Since 2010, video conferencing and remote meetings have been a regular part of making ministry happen in the Dakotas. If you needed to attend a meeting, you drove to one of ten video conferencing sites, about 1 to 1.5 hours at a maximum, from your home. Fast forward to 2022, you can now participate in any meeting, event, or training at your home with your phone, tablet, or laptop. Just hop on Zoom and connect.  

The mission of The United Methodist Church is to "Make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." We accomplish that mission by sharing leadership and connection. Lay and clergy members are expected to lead at the local church, the annual conference, and the denomination.  

In the Dakotas Conference, several boards, agencies, and committees rely on clergy and lay leadership. You may wonder, or even think, "that is not for me." Or "I don't have the time to travel to meetings and events."  

The Nominating Committee for the Dakotas Conference is inviting you to your next leadership opportunity. Why should you consider this opportunity? The rural context of the Dakotas and the pandemic have created a culture for all to lead in meaningful ways utilizing technology. Here is what you can expect. 

Photo by Mourizal Zativa on unsplash.com.

First, we value the time of everyone. It might seem like we should have more time now that many of us are not commuting and are working from home offices. Yet, with the mix of work and personal obligations, our time is more valuable than ever as we are pulled in more directions. The number of times committees, boards, and agencies meet has significantly been reduced as a conference. 

Second, we honor everyone's voice. Sometimes, especially in face-to-face or in-person meetings, it seems like whoever talks the most gets the most attention. With tools like Zoom polling, chat, and visual votes, there is an opportunity for everyone's voice or perspective to be heard.

We work to make meetings substantive and meaningful. The number of times a group meets is not a function of the calendar but a process of the group's goals, purpose, and tasks. Technology allows people to meet when they need it.  

Finally, the technology is not overwhelming, and there is help available. You may think I am just not a "techie." Pew Research reports that the vast majority of Americans – 97% – now own a cellphone of some kind. If you own a cell phone, you can attend a meeting on Zoom or call into the session. Plus, there is always someone to call or contact if you need assistance. 

How can you jump on board? Review the nominations list from 2021. If you see a committee, board, or agency you are interested in, contact Bea Stucke at bea.stucke@dakotasumc.org or a member of the Nominations Committee.