Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us that there is a time for everything, whether we are walking through seasons of joy or seasons of difficulty. As we look back over the past few years, we can truly say that God has been faithful.
The Dakota Conference has walked through significant change. We experienced a difficult decision by the special constituency to close our academy. For many, that season brought uncertainty, sadness and concern. Yet even when the future seemed unclear, God was still present in the details.
He has continued to lead His people with purpose, and today we can see evidence of His guidance as it has opened up other fields of service.
Stewarding God’s resources
The administrative team has sought to lead by example, especially in the stewardship of God’s finances. Our members give faithfully, and we want to honor their faithfulness through responsible management and thoughtful distribution of funds.
- Under the watchful care of our treasurer, conference reserves have increased to between five and six months, in line with the NAD policy.
- By the grace of God, we maintain that financial strength, though tithe can fluctuate in an agricultural setting.
We are grateful for the way God continues to impress His people to support the mission.
Following the closure of the academy, the conference began meaningful conversations about how to use the facility in a way that would continue to serve the mission.
Today, our ministries are using the campus for retreats, conferences and ministry events.
The administrative team has been intentional in maintaining and upgrading the property, with the hope of developing it as a conference center for evangelism and outreach. Caring for our facilities is part of stewardship, hospitality, safety and readiness for ministry.
Growing the kingdom together
We are here to grow the kingdom of God as we prepare for the return of Jesus. With that in mind, the conference has identified areas where growth is possible and has invested in Bible workers and a church-planting pastor.
- Through this initiative, an active group is growing in Brookings, South Dakota.
- Work is also developing in Sioux Falls through the combined efforts of the Hurley and Sioux Falls churches.
- More churches have expressed interest in joining the Bible worker initiative, and we look forward to seeing how God will continue to bless this work.
Connecting growth to local mission
Membership growth is most meaningful when it is connected to local mission.
- Our desire is for our churches to be known not only as places where truth is preached, but as places where love is practiced.
- Community service, Bible studies, prayer ministries, health outreach, visitation, food distribution, and family support can open doors for people to experience Christ in personal and practical ways.
Caring for those who serve
Conference leadership has also been intentional about caring for employees.
- Switching medical insurance to Blue Cross has provided employees with zero monthly contributions, putting more money into employees’ pockets.
- In a territory that can sometimes be overlooked, we desire to create a work environment that attracts and retains workers by showing that they are valued, supported and cared for.
Looking ahead with hope
As we look ahead, several hopes guide our hearts:
- To reach more youth through summer camps, children’s ministries, and mentoring.
- To continue supporting Adventist education in all its forms.
- To grow through local mission initiatives that connect our churches with their communities.
- To continue caring for and improving our facilities so they remain useful for ministry.
- To expand evangelism by training pastors, equipping churches, and providing practical resources for the field.
The Dakota Conference is hopeful as we reflect on how God has brought us through change, sustained us through uncertainty, and positioned us for mission.
Now we move forward together with faith, gratitude, stewardship and a renewed commitment to proclaim the gospel.
Vernon Herholdt has served as president of the Dakota Conference of Seventh-day Adventists since 2024. He and his wife, Melanie, cherish time spent with their growing family.
