Niobrara School
for Ministry

The Niobrara School for Ministry (NSM) acts as the primary way that Diocese of South Dakota provides theological and ministerial education at a Diocesan level. The Niobrara School for Ministry acts as the primary means by which people in the ordination process who are undertaking their ministerial education receive their training. The Niobrara School also provides educational opportunities for lay people not seeking ordination and for already ordained clergy to continue and deepen their theological educations. The Niobrara School offers between four and five ministry weekends each year and the topics that these cover follow close to a three year rotation. The Ministry Weekends are open to all members of the Diocese of South Dakota. Those undergoing formal ministerial education in the context of the ordination process have a further course of study comprised of lectures and books in the areas of ministry canonically required by the larger Episcopal Church. This course of study is overseen by the Canon for Formation and the Archdeacon. Instructors are scholar-practitioners from throughout the Diocese and the broader church. An extended description of the Niobrara School for Ministry Course of Study can be found in part two of the Ministry  Handbook. Registration for upcoming Niobrara School Events (listed in the calendar on this page) can be accomplished either by filling out the registration form here on this page or by contacting the Marlys Fratzke at the Diocesan office, by email

Upcoming Events