Message in a Minute

Click the image above to hear from Pastor Harold as well as to learn about the three Key Announcements for this week!

Spiritual Reflection

“Who we say that Jesus is… says who we are.”

Len Sweet

Terrific Tuesday Dinner Event (April 2024)

Tuesday, April 16 from 4:45 PM – 7 PM

Pastor Harold is leading a Terrific Tuesday series titled, “Jesus by the Sea.” During the three-year ministry of Jesus, He spent more time around the Sea of Galilee than any other location. We find that the greatest teachings, miracles, and callings of Jesus came around that body of water. During this series, Pastor Harold will pick a key event that is connected to the Sea of Galilee and explore the meaning with us. Join us as we follow Jesus around the lake. There is plenty to learn and discover. Join us as Pastor Harold is going to teach on Jesus turning the “water into wine.”

You may also come at 5:45 PM just to hear Pastor Harold's presentation without attending dinner — no charge and no registration required for the presentation only.

Menu: Caesar Salad, Breaded Veal Cutlet Parmigiana, Baked Ziti Pasta, Italian Green Beans, Dinner Roll & Butter, Tiramisu



Registration is required for dinner ($12). To register, please use the button below.

New Sermon Series Begins This Weekend

“I Believe…”

We are excited for the New Sermon Series that Pastor Harold is launching this weekend, titled, “I Believe,” and focuses on The Apostles’ Creed. During this series, we will use Adam Hamilton’s book “Creed” as a guide to explore what Christians believe, why we believe it, and how we can apply our faith in our everyday lives.

Bookmarks for this series are available at the Welcome Center. Pick up one for yourself and friends.

Village Ringers

Sunday, April 14 at 3 PM in the Fellowship Center

Village Ringers present "Put Your Dancin' Shoes On!" Directed by Bonnie Fisher, come hear - and see live dancers - as handbells perform beautiful dances of all sorts - waltz, folk, Irish, line dance, even Doo-Wop! You'll have the opportunity to cut a rug yourself!

Tickets may also be purchased at the door ($15).

Women's Monthly Gathering (April 2024)

“Make Me a Blessing”

Thursday, April 18 from 10–11:30 AM (with lunch to follow)

Join the women this month as we learn how God can “Make Me a Blessing”! We have a couple of surprises in store for you – so you don’t want to miss out! Pastor Ellen will kick us off with a devotion on God’s promise to Abraham about blessings and an extra special musical guest, Angie Rose, will bless us with special music! For the mission this month, we will be highlighting the blessing of several local and international missions in our community and world! As always, Chef John is preparing something extra wonderful for us as we share blessings with our friends for lunch!

Menu: Basil Chicken Sandwich with Fresh Mozzarella Cheese on a Brioche Roll, Almond Strawberry & Spinach Salad, Sweet Potato Chips, Chocolate Mousse Cake

 

Registration is required ($10). If you have any questions, please contact Pat Hill.

Generosity

The founder of the Methodist Church, John Wesley, is quoted frequently. One of my favorites is it’s “Not, how much of my money will I give to God, but, how much of God’s money will I keep for myself?” Tithing is a big decision for many. It’s not such a big deal for others. Tithing helps us to look outside our selfishness. It’s meant to be a benefit for us and make us more aware of the needs of others.

Whether you tithe or not, giving to your church makes you feel good. A generous heart is a kind heart. You will not find a generous person who is an unhappy person. Try it, you’ll like it.

Legacy Giving 

Giving through your will or trust allows you to keep your assets while you need them.

The Villages Flute Choir presents

The Beauty of the Earth

Thursday, April 4 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center 

Immerse yourself in the enchanting fusion of nature and melody as The Villages Flute Choir unveils “The Beauty of the Earth.” Our carefully selected repertoire includes evocative pieces like On Wings of the Wind, Songs of the Ocean, Forest Scenes, Water Music Suite, and the timeless What a Wonderful World, among others. Allow the rich tapestry of sounds from an array of flutes to transport you to a realm where music mirrors the splendor of the natural world. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the melodies that celebrate the Earth's magnificence. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the unique charm of The Villages Flute Choir.

Tickets may be purchased at the door ($15).

The Spirited Singles Class Offers a New Study

Beginning Sunday, April 7 in Classroom 3

Joy is everywhere in the book of Philippians. The emotion that Paul poured out in his letter to the church in Philippi shines through in every verse — and Paul wrote it as a prisoner chained to a Roman guard. What gives the Apostle Paul such resounding joy, even in the face of suffering and persecution? In this six-session study, bestselling author and pastor Mark Batterson serves as a tour guide on the letter to the Philippians, uncovering the major themes of joy, gratitude, unity, and purpose found in this inspiring letter. The heartbeat of Philippians is for believers to have a Jesus-centered vision of life; a radical vision that, when seen fully, enables us to embrace joy no matter the circumstances. Please join us — all are welcome!

Horns A Plenty

Sunday, April 7 at 4 PM in the Fellowship Center

From Kentucky to Vermont; from Mahler to Mariachi; from Sassy to Prayerful — there will be something for everyone. Hear the variety of sounds and moods that we present with 3 to 14 performers on the versatile French Horn. The only instrument essential in bands, orchestras, brass quintets, and woodwind quintets; the horns show off their ability to stand on their own. You will be sure to enjoy the instrument that so many other musicians wish they could play.

Tickets may also be purchased at the door ($15).

Villages Concert Band

Thursday, April 11 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

Step into the vibrant world of music and springtime rejuvenation with "Celebrate Spring," a mesmerizing concert by The Villages Concert Band. Set against the backdrop of the season's renewal, this concert is a vibrant tapestry of melodies ranging from the spirited marches of "El Capitan" to the profound depths of "Dvorak Symphony #9" excerpts, and the rhythmic pulses of "Bolero." Revel in the nostalgia of "America" from West Side Story and hum along to the beloved tunes from "My Fair Lady." Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the essence of spring through a musical journey that promises to be as exhilarating as the season itself. Join us to capture the joy, renewal, and boundless energy of spring through the universal language of music.

Tickets may also be purchased at the door ($15).

Invitation from Warren Willis Camp

Saturday, April 13 from 9 AM – 5 PM (please arrive by 11 AM)

Join us and Bishop Tom Berlin for a Summer Camp Prep and Clean-up Day. Let’s work together to create a vibrant space for an unforgettable Summer Camp experience for all the campers who come to Warren Willis this summer. It’s a day of service and bonding, where we’ll unite to spruce up our beloved campgrounds and make creative props for our Games of Life summer theme. We will have plenty of water, Gatorade, and pizza for everyone. Let’s get our hands dirty for a good cause! This is your opportunity to make a real difference for all our summer campers. We can’t wait to see the extraordinary impact we can make together!

Dr. Kevin Cooke on Intermittent Fasting

Wednesday, April 17 at 1 PM in the Chapel

Intermittent fasting works because it’s not a diet — it’s a lifestyle.  We know that the brain and the gut are closely tied, and when you feed your brain is just as important as what you feed it. Join Dr. Kevin Cooke as he discusses how you can recharge your brain and body through an easy-to-follow nutritional strategy: intermittent fasting. You will learn the benefits of intermittent fasting down to a cellular level, with impacts on your waistline, energy levels, and brain function.

Dr. Cooke spent six years practicing family medicine in Apopka and was one of two lead physicians overseeing a group of 38 physicians in the north Orlando area. During his training, he received the intern of the year award, served as recruitment chair and held a leadership position on the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education committee. He is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

For more information on our Health Speaker Series, please contact Jackie Kuhn. No registration is needed; all are welcome.

Holy Land Trip 2025 — Information Meeting

Wednesday, April 24 at 9 AM in the Chapel

Please join Pastor Harold at the upcoming information meeting to learn about his next Holy Land trip.

He will lead another Christian pilgrimage to the Holy Land next year, Monday, March 31–Tuesday, April 9, 2025. The tour will include Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Sea of Galilee, Jacob’s Well, Samaria, Emmaus, Megiddo, Mount Carmel, Jericho, Qumran, Masada, and the Dead Sea.

You may attend the information meeting or click the button below to read the full brochure. Brochures are also located at the “Welcome Center” in the East Narthex. To register, please visit the EO website. 

The Choralettes present "An American Journey"

Tuesday, April 30 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center

Experience the spirit of America like never before! Join the Villages Choralettes for an electrifying concert, "An American Journey," as we embark on a musical odyssey celebrating the very essence of our great nation. This isn't just a concert; it's a heart-stirring tribute to the heroes who have safeguarded our freedom and a nostalgic voyage through the timeless songs that echo the soul of America.

Prepare to be captivated by the power of music and community spirit in an evening where every note resonates with the stories of our land. Sing along with us, rekindle your patriotic pride, and revel in the melodies that have shaped our country's legacy.



This event is more than just entertainment; it's an opportunity to give back. Admission is free, but your generous love offerings will illuminate the paths of young souls embarking on missions of hope and service. Don't miss this chance to celebrate America and support a noble cause. Let's fill the air with music and our hearts with pride. Join us on this unforgettable American Journey!

Admission is Free (A Love Offering will be taken to support Youth Missions)

Good Grief

Thursdays, May 2 – June 6 from 1 PM – 3 PM

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Good Grief is a 6-week, Christ-centered support group meeting based on the book by Granger Westberg and the workbook/journal created by Chaplain Cecil Fike. Using the themes from the workbook, we share our stories together as we learn how to manage this journey that we call grief. Included in our time will be such topics as: The Process and Tasks of Grieving, The Individual Factors of Your Grief, Dealing with Sudden Death, and Facing Holidays and Special Anniversaries. Annamay Baldwin and Karen Cleveland will be the facilitators for this group. For more information, please contact Sharon Weimert.

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Registration ($20) is required.

Please Welcome Our New Staff Members

Need Digital Assistance? Mat's Got You Covered!

This weekend, between services, Mat Napp will be available at the Welcome Center in the East Narthex for personalized help and clarity on all things digital. Struggling to access our online services? Confused about QR codes? Mat will be there to provide guidance and support. Whether you're a tech whiz or just getting started, he is here to assist. See you there!

Please Be Aware of the New Stop Signs

On Monday, March 18, new multi-way stop signs were placed at the intersection of CR 101 and Woodridge Drive. This intersection is located at the northeast corner of New Covenant and may impact anyone who uses the church entrance on CR 101.

The Sumter County Sheriffs are patrolling this area. Please observe the posted speed and stop signs.

Bargains & Blessing Volunteers Needed

Bargains & Blessing Resale Store is looking for volunteers that can help with a variety of duties, including scheduling, cashiering, labeling items for sale, sorting items that come in, helping customers, and Family Interface. 

Any amount of time you can provide Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM – 4 PM would be appreciated. If you are interested, please contact Stephanie Ashkenaz at (352) 330-3333, or send her an email.

Prayers and Squares Quilt Ministry

Our Prayers and Squares Quilt Ministry continues to go strong! There are quilts on the prayer rails each weekend for all to pray over and tie a knot for the recipient. New Covenant is proud to offer these tangible ways to show love and concern for those in need of prayer support. To order a prayer quilt online, please use the link below.

Jeff Bain Family and Sonya

Dottie Barron

Kathleen Cannon

The Conely Family

Jim Ellis

Edward Farquhar

Phillip Hobaugh

Bob & Linda Neuman

Susan Raber 

Donna Rudd

Pamela Reinert

The prayer quilts on the altar are for...

Frans, who had colon cancer surgery and is undergoing chemo.

Scott, who was paralyzed in an auto accident.

Wayne, who had surgery.

Weston, who is having surgery to remove a tumor around his spinal cord.

Prayer quilts are made by a dedicated group in our church who envision the quilts being a special gift of love for people facing difficult situations. If you would like to order a prayer quilt, please click the button below.

Our prayers, love, and sympathy are extended to...

Nancy Stafford, family and friends on the passing of her husband, Michael “Mike” E. Stafford.

Our Altar Flowers have been provided by:

Gene Murray in loving memory of my darling wife,

Mary Alice Bishop Murray.

Karleen Pritts in loving memory of my son, Danny Pritts.

Flower orders must be received by noon on Tuesday for flowers to be delivered that weekend. To place an order for altar flowers, please contact Ginny Davis, Care & Discipleship Ministry Assistant, using the button below.