In my last article, the first in this series, I stated my aims in these reflections. I am hardly the first person to lay out the Wesleyan understanding of salvation and so I am not going to try to cover everything that can be said. My goal is “to put the most important issues right up front and then spend a bit of time highlighting implications that don’t always get raised for those who want to go just a bit deeper.” This month, we are looking at “convicting grace.” This is

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right,  whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is  excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things." (Phil.  4:8) February is the month we celebrate Valentine's Day. It is a special day when we are called to share true love, as God loves the world (1 Peter 4:8). My wife and I always have a plan for this day. We remember great moments and look through some of ou

In last month’s newsletter the Missions Team challenged every church in the Upper Midwest Conference to make a difference by joining together to provide life-giving water to 3 daycare centers or preschools in the province of Limpopo, South Africa. In celebration of our 3rd year as a Conference our goal is to raise $37,000, enough for Blessman International (our Conference-endorsed mission organization) to dig 3 wells!!! Is your Mission Committee or Team aware of this opportu

Early in my ministry, when I was recruiting people to serve on church committees and leadership teams, I often used a line like, “It’s not that much work.” My thinking was that if I didn’t make the task sound too big, people would be more willing to say yes. I assumed hesitation was the primary obstacle to service. What I learned over time is that I was underappreciating both the role of leadership in the church and the desire of lay people to serve passionately and wholehea

“By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” John 15:8   As we begin a new year, many churches set goals, refine calendars, and plan initiatives. But if we are serious about becoming an Annual Conference where Every Church Plants, we must begin at a deeper level. Multiplication does not start with strategies or structures, it starts with spiritual health and spiritual health only comes from being connected to the Vine: Jesus Chri

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4 NIV We are grateful for all of you who support Women’s Ministry in your local churches and in our wonderful Upper Midwest Conference! H A P P Y   2 0 2 6 We Rejoice! Another year of Women’s Ministry. Another year of growing spiritually. Another year of connecting with women in the Upper Midwest. Another year of serving our Lord. Are you interested in making 2026 your best year yet by fortifying your da