The first objective of the Association of Christian Churches of South Dakota is to discover and further, through creative forums, the unity we have in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. 

A planning retreat during our Spring, 2005 quarterly meeting, resulted in our commitment to discussing denominational perspectives in 2006 through discussions centered around particular issues, led by members who would present their positions to start the discussions.  We consider frank discussions of positions we agree, or disagree, upon to be a cornerstone of sharing an ecumenical path.

   Our second objective is to help fulfill Christ's mission in this time and place.

We continue to meet this objective through supporting ministries run by people who have some very specific calls (see our "Ministry of Support" link), and by advocating for social and political positions that we all agree we can support.

Many Association members believe that a budget is a moral document, and that the country's anticipated spending priorities are not consistent with what we believe to be our moral position regarding treatment of the poor, the elderly, and the infirm.  We have established priorities for children at risk and intend to operationalize strategies for meeting objectives related to these priorities. 

   Our third objective is to do those things that we may together do more effectively and efficiently than separately.

In the past we've been involved in disaster relief operations, such as "Hands Across South Dakota" and "Grains of Hope".  We hope to continue responding to disasters by helping to coordinate the work of our member churches and other response agencies.

   Our fourth objective is to do those things that we ought or must do together.

Are there things we must or ought to do together?  The answer lies at the heart of ecumenism.  It stares at us from Iraq and Africa and the Middle East.  It has to do with the factionalism existing in our churches and communities.  It has to do with perfectly sound Christian people challenged to vote one way or another as if Jesus himself preferred the Democrats' or the Republicans' stand on given political issues.  It has to do with people condemning friends and family because of their position on love, marriage, and procreation as if those positions guarantee to select (or limit) their place in Heaven.
What we must do is love each other, as we were commanded to do, and to listen to, and respect, one anther as we expect to be listened to, and respected.  We will strive to practice this, as we discover those things that we ought or must do together.          

Gary Nesdahl, Director
Association of Christian Churches of South Dakota

The 2004 Director's message can be viewed by clicking "2004"

If you wish to read an opinion article about the politicization of religion     [click here]