By: Dakotas Conference Communications

More than 100 clergy and lay leaders explored ways to multiply ministries at a “Sowing Generously” event on Oct. 8. The in-person, multi-site event for the Dakota-Minnesota Area of the United Methodist Church stretched the thinking of attendees to reach new people.  
 
“We want to spark your interest in being God’s multiplying presence,” Rev. Ben Ingebretson, director of new church development for the Dakotas-Minnesota Area, said to participants. “How can we imagine ourselves into that new thing?” 
 
Ingebretson led the event and introduced stories from leaders of three congregations—leaders who have followed the Holy Spirit, sowed generously, and planted a new ministry. 
 

“I invite you to listen and watch the stories and ask where God is leading you to multiply or reach the next person for Jesus,” said Ingebretson. 
 
Each of the three featured stories was followed by a discussion with the leaders of each congregation.
  
Multiplication any church can play: Sunnycrest and Renuevo: What might it look like to invite someone new, not like us, to join the Jesus journey? Sunnycrest UMC in Sioux Falls knew that it was surrounded by diversity. So the congregation made some attempts to invite their neighbors. Then Renuevo happened by listening to God’s voice and letting the Holy Spirit take the lead.  Watch full story / Watch conversation with Sunnycrest and Renuevo leaders 
 
Taking the risk: The Grove: The Grove in Woodbury, Minnesota decided to multiply its ministry and launch a new campus in Cottage Grove. The effort ran into two roadblocks: existing mindsets and cultures, and a worldwide pandemic. Multiplying means taking a risk and riding the ups and downs of the challenge until you come out with success.  Watch 3-minute overview / Watch full story / View conversation with The Grove leaders
 
Leadership apprenticing: Fusion: How can we apprentice the next leader to help us make disciples? Fusion UMC in Mitchell, South Dakota, partnering with campus ministries at Dakota Wesleyan University, invites future leaders to explore, experiment, and live into God’s call for them. It is about building relationships and letting people “try things on for size.”  Watch 3-minute overview / Watch full story / View conversation with Fusion leaders 
 

“I hope you find some takeaways that encourage you to multiply,” said Ingebretson. “Maintain missional clarity like Jesus. The Area wants to be your partner in putting seeds in the soil. So, what will you cultivate that will cause your ministry to grow and expand God’s kingdom?” 
 
Contact your district superintendent if you have questions or want to know more about multiplying. 
 
Additional resources: 
Access all event videos 
Questions posed to multiplying leaders