Message in a Minute

Click the image above to hear from Pastor Ellen and to learn about the three Key Announcements for this week!

Spiritual Reflection

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Helen Keller 

Experience the Power of the Cross 

Lamb of Glory / Risen King

A Worship Concert for Holy Week

Saturday, April 12 at 5 PM (Doors Open at 4:15 PM)

Experience a wonderful evening featuring The Chancel Choir, Worship Band, Orchestra, and Special Guest Clay Crosse. As we approach the most sacred season of the year, we have a unique opportunity to reflect on the sacrifice and victory of Jesus and to share the hope of the gospel.

We invite you to be part of Lamb of Glory / Risen King, a powerful worship concert that tells the story of Christ’s love, His journey to the cross, and His triumphant resurrection. This night of music and praise will bring to life the message of salvation through moving anthems and worship songs.

More than just a concert, this is a time for our church family to reach out — to friends, neighbors, and loved ones who need to hear the message of Jesus. Who in your life could use the encouragement of knowing they are deeply loved and redeemed by Christ? A simple invitation could change a life.

Featuring Dove Award-Winning Artist Clay Crosse

We are honored to welcome Clay Crosse, an artist whose music has impacted the Christian community for decades. Clay’s debut album My Place Is With You introduced him as a dynamic voice in Contemporary Christian Music, leading to four Dove Awards, including New Artist of the Year in 1995. His hit songs, including I Surrender All, He Walked a Mile, and I Will Follow Christ, have touched countless hearts, reminding us of the depth of God’s grace.

This is a night you won’t want to miss. Let’s fill the room with voices of praise and hearts ready to receive the good news of the risen King! Let’s worship together and share the story of Jesus with our community!

No ticket required — a love offering will be accepted.

Palm Sunday Worship

April 13 at 9 AM & 11 AM

The Chancel Choir, Praise Ringers, and Orchestra

and a special message by Rev. Harold Hendren

Holy Thursday Worship with Communion

April 17 at 6 PM

Worship leader Angie Rose with The Praise Band

and a special message by Rev. Ellen Pollock

Good Friday Tenebrae Service

The Solemn Shadows by Joseph Martin

April 18 at 12 PM

The Chancel Choir with The Community United Methodist Church Choir

Readings by pastors of both New Covenant and Community UMC

Saturday Contemporary Worship

April 19 at 5 PM

The Praise Band

and a special message by Rev. Harold Hendren

Easter Sunrise Worship in the East Parking Lot

April 20 at 6:30 AM

Worship leader Angie Rose with The Praise Band

and a special message by Rev. Harold Hendren

Easter Sunday Blended Worship

April 20 at 9 AM & 11 AM

The Chancel Choir, The Praise Ringers, Brass, and Organ

and a special message by Rev. Harold Hendren

Praying Out Loud Workshop (April 2025)

Tuesday, April 8 at 10:30 AM – 12 PM in the Chapel

Does the thought of offering a prayer make you nervous or break into a cold sweat? Pastor Marilyn Anell can help! Join us for her upcoming workshop. Whether you are an experienced “pray-er” or a novice, this workshop is well worth your time! Pastor Marilyn brings practical helps to ease our fears and discomfort in praying for ourselves and others, all while making this a fun and joy-filled experience! 

There is no cost for this workshop. However, registration is required so we can plan our handout materials and SNACKS.

Solo Sisters in Spirit (April 2025)

Thursday, April 10 from 4 – 6 PM

Our guest speaker will be Charlie Kanton from Seniors vs Crime, Project from Florida Attorney’s Office to share current fraudulent crimes, special mention of financial scams and an overview on how to protect ourselves.  

Registration is required, so we have enough chairs for everyone. There is no charge for this event.

For more information or help with registration, please contact Sharon Weimert, Ministry Coordinator.

A Generous Person

A generous person will prosper; whosoever refreshes others will be refreshed. (Proverbs 11:25)

Doesn’t that sound nice? Being refreshed and prospering, who wouldn’t want that! God’s gift to us when we give to others can be very uplifting; it warms our hearts and is good for our soul. We have many ways at church that you can be generous through your time, talents, and yes, your giving of tithes and offerings. Try it, you might want to do it every day.

Legacy Giving

When planning for your estate, you feel good knowing that you are providing for the people and causes you care about.

The Villages Concert Band

Thursday, April 3 at 7 PM

Step into a world of music magic as The Villages Concert Band takes you on an unforgettable journey "From Broadway to the Big Screen". This spectacular Spring Concert features timeless masterpieces from "The Phantom of the Opera", "Dances with Wolves", and "Pirates of the Caribbean", alongside classic gems like "El Capitan", "King Cotton", and "Pilgrims Chorus."

Get swept away by the power of "Bohemian Rhapsody", the excitement of "The Great Steamboat Race", and the jazzy charm of "A Touch of Jazz". Special guest Gary Powell joins the band on organ, adding his virtuosity to the haunting melodies of "The Phantom of the Opera" and the stirring "Pilgrims Chorus."

Don’t miss this incredible evening of music that celebrates the grandeur of Broadway, the thrill of cinema, and the joy of live performance. A perfect way to welcome Spring.

Tickets are available at the door ($20).

Support Abba Art This Weekend

Saturday, April 5 & Sunday, April 6 in the Cardinal Alcove!

This weekend, we invite you to experience something truly special—the Annual Abba Art Show, taking place before and after all worship services on Saturday and Sunday in the Cardinal Alcove.

Abba Art is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a ministry that uses the power of visual art to glorify God and inspire hearts. Each piece on display is a reflection of faith, prayer, and personal testimony, created by members of our church community who are passionate about sharing God’s truth through artistic expression.

By attending the art show, you’re not only enjoying a beautiful display of God-given talent—you’re also encouraging artists, fostering creativity within our church family, and supporting a ministry that touches lives in powerful ways.

Whether you’re an art lover, someone seeking inspiration, or simply curious, there’s something here for everyone. Take a few minutes before or after service to stroll through the exhibit and meet the artists. Come be a part of what God is doing through the arts. We can’t wait to see you there!

Easter Plants

This is the last weekend to sign up for live plants for Easter weekend worship services. To donate a plant in honor or memory of someone, please sign up at the kiosk in the East Narthex or by following the registration link. Each plant costs $10 (payable by cash or check to NCUMC), and payment is due when you sign up.

You may also order plants online using the button below (credit card only).

Plants will be available for you to take home after the 11 AM worship service on Easter Sunday.

Welcome Back Marissa!

The Villages Horns Aplenty Spring Concert

Sunday, April 6 at 4 PM

The Villages Horns Aplenty is back once again to present their Spring Concert! Experience the depth of these rich and mellow sounds as they serenade the space with “Three Sacred Songs,” as well as the classic and energetic “1812 Overture” by Tchaikovsky. Sit back and listen to the versatility of the horn, which started as an outdoor signal instrument and later developed into one that has melded perfectly into the stately courts of Europe, as well as gifting us with some of the most iconic movie themes we know and love! Please join us for this wonderful program that you and your friends are sure to remember and love!

Tickets are required ($20) and are also available at the door.

The Villages Flute Choir “A Breath of Spring”

Tuesday, April 8 at 7 PM

The Villages Flute Choir is back again with “A Breath of Spring,” a concert that beautifully blends the elegance of classical music, including the cherished “Ave Maria” and “Nessun Dorma.” “March of the Trolls” will be performed with great energy and character. “The Bird Song” will be presented with humor and fun, giving these classical flute lovers a rare opportunity to laugh at themselves, with the lovely and talented Jill Marrese featured as the soprano soloist. Rounding out the program will be outstanding audience pleasers “A Spanish Polonaise,” “Shut-Up and Dance,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and “Traffic Jam.” 

Tickets are required ($20) and are also available at the door.

Lenten Music Meditations:

A Time of Reflection and Renewal

Wednesday, April 9 at 12:15 – 12:45 PM in the Chapel

Ryan Loeckel, violin and Gary Powell, organ

As we journey through the sacred season of Lent, we invite you to step away from the busyness of life and enter a space of peace, prayer, and contemplation. Each week, organist Gary Powell and friends will guide us through a 30-minute musical meditation enriched with thoughtful readings. This noontime concert series offers a sacred pause — a moment to reflect, pray, and prepare our hearts as we continue toward the promise of Easter.

Music can quiet our souls and draw us closer to God, and through these meditative offerings, we hope to provide a sanctuary for spiritual renewal. Whether you come for a brief respite from your day or to seek deeper connection in your Lenten journey, you are welcome to join us. We look forward to sharing this meaningful time with you. Come as you are, and let the music lead you into stillness and grace.

Women’s Monthly Gathering (April 2025)

“Redemption”

Thursday, April 17 from 10 – 11:30 (with lunch to follow)

On July 4, 1990, eighteen-year-old Stacey Lannert shot and killed her father, who had been sexually abusing her since she was eight.  Missouri state law, a disbelieving prosecutor, and Stacey’s own fragile psyche conspired against her. She was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life without parole.

“Redemption” is Stacey’s candid memoir of her harrowing childhood and the pain and protective love of her sister that led her to that horrifying night. It is also an extraordinary portrait of what happened after she found herself in prison and how she grew determined to live positively — even triumphantly — despite her circumstances. Ultimately, and most profoundly, she learned the healing power of forgiveness.

Stacey will be our guest and speaker at the April Women’s Gathering. Doors open at 9 AM. 

Menu: Shepherds Pot Roast Pie, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Dinner Roll, Lemon Meringue Pie 

Registration is required ($10).

The Villages Symphonic Winds

Sunday, April 27 at 6 PM

Join us for a concert that demonstrates the versatility of the modern concert band. It will open with a march by Conductor Lewis Buckley honoring first responders; will continue with classic concert band works including Grainger’s famed Lincolnshire Posy, Robert Russell Bennett’s Suite of Old American Dances; and will include Carmen Dragon’s gorgeous arrangement of America the Beautiful. In the proud tradition of concert band programs going back to John Philip Sousa, co-principal clarinetist Terri Quirk will perform a beautiful and technically dazzling solo, Ernesto Cavallini’s wonderful Adagio and Tarantella.

Jean Butler has been a prime mover in the development of band music in The Villages, forming and conducting the Villages Concert Band and laying the groundwork for all the other concert bands we have here. And Jean is also a long time member (on French horn) of Symphonic Winds. To honor her before she moves to New England in the fall, we are inviting her to conduct Rossano Gallante’s wonderful A Childhood Remembered, which she says perfectly captures her own feeling that “you’re never too old to have a happy childhood!"

The dazzling concert finale will be Conductor Buckley’s arrangement of virtually all the songs in Meredith Willson’s famed Broadway hit, The Music Man, which Buckley was commissioned to write in honor of Willson’s 100^th birth date in 2002. Fair warning — you’ll have 76 Trombones running through your ears for days!

Tickets are required ($20). Tickets are also available at the door.

Bruce Barbour

Donna Bright

Megan Foster

Bill Hewitt 

Fredson Moore

Judy Nast

Becky Sippel

The Prayer Quilts on the Altar are for:

Bud, who has been diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma.

Letta, who is having a total left hip replacement.

Robert, who is waiting for a heart transplant.

Suzi, who has breathing concerns due to lung cancer.

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...

Richard Edwards, family and friends on the passing of his wife, Susan Louise Edwards.

Corinne Dixon, family and friends on the passing of her husband, Robert “Bob” Dixon.

For upcoming Celebrations of Life at New Covenant United Methodist Church, please click the button below.

The Altar Flowers have been provided by:

Gene Murray in memory of Mary Murray’s going home to be with Jesus.

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, Ministry Assistant, using the button below.