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Message in a Minute
Click the image above to hear from Pastor Harold and to learn about the three Key Announcements for this week!
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Spiritual Reflection
“Lovely was the death of him whose life was love.”
Samuel Taylor Coleridge
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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.
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
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Women’s Monthly Gathering (April 2025)
“Redemption”
Thursday, April 17 from 10 – 11:30 AM (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).
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Why Volunteering Matters
You hear about volunteer opportunities all the time – but why give up your free time to do a job without pay? The truth is, volunteering is one of the most powerful ways to give back – to your community, your church, your school, and beyond.
At New Covenant, our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. Without them, we simply couldn’t offer the incredible programs and ministries that serve so many. Whether it’s helping someone to their car, offering a friendly smile, or lending a hand behind the scenes, volunteering creates meaningful moments that build stronger connections within our church family.
Volunteering is also good for you. Did you know that 77 percent of volunteers report improved mental health, and over half say their physical health improves too? On top of that, serving with others opens the door to new friendships and shared purpose – often with people who share your values and passions. Volunteers may not earn a paycheck, but they gain something far more valuable: joy, growth, and a deep sense of belonging. We also recognize that serving others honors the Lord.
If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, now is a perfect time to jump in. Your time and heart can make a real difference.
Want to learn more or find the right spot to serve? Please contact Ashley Hill, First Impressions Manager, or stop by the Welcome Center on the weekends. We’d love to help get you connected!
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Make a Positive Difference Locally, Regionally, and Globally
We would like to take a moment to highlight the Missions Pages on the church website. Janine Rogers, Director of Missions & Outreach, as well as representatives from the church and partner organizations, have put together videos to introduce you to each program.
If you’ve ever wondered about how to get involved in missions and outreach or all the ways that your church is making a positive difference, the Missions pages on the church website are a tremendous resource.
To learn more, please click the button below!
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Giving
Giving is not only a command but must also entail a cheerful attitude from the giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7 reads: Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
We are all created by God out of His overflowing love for us. The Bible tells us that giving is an important aspect of our Christian lives. When we give part of our resources, we help fulfill God’s mandate for us here on Earth. Giving also proves our innate love and gratitude to our Creator and to fellow human beings.
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Legacy Giving
Less than two percent of people leave anything in their will or trust to their church.
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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.
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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.
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Easter Floral Crosses
The Guild will have wire crosses at the East Entrance and the West Entrance on Easter weekend. Carnations will be available for you to place in the wire in memory or honor of a loved one. If you prefer, you may bring a flower from your garden to insert on the cross.
If you ordered Easter plants, they will be available for you to take home after the 11 AM worship service on Easter Sunday.
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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 100th 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.
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Good Grief (May 2025)
Thursdays, May 1 – June 5, from 1 – 3 PM
Good Grief is a 6-week, Christ centered grief support group offered twice a year with discussions drawn from topics presented in a workbook. As we fellowship together, we offer support and comfort through your journey of grief. Two caring and supportive facilitators, who have walked the same path, will guide you along your journey.
There is no cost for the class but registration is required. If you wish to purchase a workbook, it is $15. Space is limited to ten people to allow for time for sharing.
For more information, please contact Sharon Weimert.
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Blessing of the Animals
Saturday, May 3 from 9 - 11 AM
Join us for our annual Blessing of the Animals and bring your furry, scaly, or feathered friends to be blessed by one of our pastors. This special event celebrates the deep bond between humans and animals, recognizing the unconditional love they bring into our lives.
Enjoy a morning filled with fellowship, visit with local rescue organizations and even opportunities for pet adoptions. Refreshments will be served, so bring a lawn chair or blanket and make yourself comfortable as we honor our beloved animal companions.
If you have a pet who is older, less mobile, or uncomfortable in social settings, you are welcome to bring a photo of them, and we will gladly offer a blessing in their honor.
There is no charge for this event, but registration is required. If you have any questions, please contact Ashely Hill.
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The Choralettes Spring Concert
Tuesday, May 6 at 6 PM in the Christian Life Center
Singers, Trumpets, and You, Oh my! Come and join The Choralettes and The Wonderlands in a fun-filled evening concert filled with great music — "Happy Songs and Sing-a-Longs"! These lovely ladies will present patriotic songs to honor our country, as well as heartfelt tunes from yester-year. The Choralettes always have a few surprises up their sleeves too! You are invited to join them in a sing-a-long with some of the great songs that you remember and love! So tune up your voices and come have fun at The Choralettes Spring Concert!
This is a free concert. A Love Offering will be taken for our New Covenant Ministries.
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Bridging Gaps Through Conversation
Wednesday, May 14 from 1 – 3:30 PM
Please join us as we show the trailer and discuss the movie “American Son.” American Son is a drama starring Kerry Washington as a mother (Kendra) who searches for her missing son after a police shooting. The 2019 film, adapted from a play by Christopher Demos-Brown, explores the themes of race, identity, and family in a divided America.
The movie revolves around Kendra, a black woman who frantically worries about her missing son. To report this, she arrives at a police station at 4 in the morning. When a cop finally reaches out, her concern seems to be a bit exaggerated as her son is 18 years old and could be out doing “teenage things” with his friends.
When the white cop dismisses her plea for help by questioning her about her son’s involvement with gangs or any form of criminal activity, she begins to realize that the cop is stereotyping her son just because of his racial background. A heated feud ensues between the two, after which the cop finally gives in and claims that he will further investigate the case.
The film received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Television Movie. We encourage you to watch the full movie prior to your attendance. It can be found on Netflix, Prime Video, and Tubi (which is free).
For more information, please contact Janine Rogers, Director, Missions & Outreach.
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DO NOT ENTER
For the safety of our congregation, staff, and construction crew — please do not enter the construction zone in the Fellowship Center. Thank you for your cooperation.
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Kathleen Cannon
Bill Craft
Mason Edwards
Darold Eyer
Steve Onerby
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Ron & Deb Sharp
Gary Smith
Carol Taylor
Eldon Taylor
David Young
| | The Prayer Quilts on the Altar are for: | | Elaine, who recently lost her husband. | | Fredson, who needs comfort and peace. | | Kelley, who has been diagnosed with cancer and will start chemo. | | Linda, who is recovering from a stroke. | | Megan, who had surgery to remove a spinal tumor. | | Michelle, who is suffering with an acute heart condition. | | Prayer quilts are made by a dedicated group in our church and throughout our community 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...
Inez Hall, family and friends on the passing of her husband, William “Bill” Hall.
For upcoming Celebrations of Life at New Covenant United Methodist Church, please click the button below.
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Altar Flowers
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.
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