Spiritual Reflection

 “Fear and Anxiety are the meteor shower of what-ifs.” 

Max Lucado

Women’s Gathering (April) with Pastor Marilyn Anell and the Strummin’ Sisters Ukulele Group

Thursday, April 16 from 10 AM – 11:30 AM (with lunch to follow)

If someone tells you about a problem, you can offer to pray later, or you can pray right now, out loud!  Which is better? Both! If you are not comfortable praying out loud, Pastor Marilyn will teach you a technique designed as an easy way to help you do this — using your hand! 

With the help of a diagram, prayer examples, scripture, and jokes, you will leave with concrete knowledge of how to pray out loud. In the future, you will be very comfortable doing this with friends, or even strangers.

Praising God can happen in two ways: prayer and singing. Following Pastor Marilyn’s prayer message, we will sing and praise God with a “Singspiration.”

We will sing the songs you choose, accompanied by Cheryl Steinborn, pianist and the Strummin’ Sisters ukulele group. Harmony Sisters will also share a song and there will be a fun surprise for everyone. It will be a great time for all.

This month's mission will be Beds & Blankets presented by Pam Brown, Ministry Leader.

Menu: Chicken Parmesan, Pasta with Marinara Sauce, Tossed Salad, Roll and Dessert

Registration is required ($12) and closes at 12 noon on Monday, April 13. If you have any questions or need help with registration, please contact Pat Hill, Care Coordinator - Discipleship.

Blessing of the Animals

A Special Morning for Our Furry Friends

Saturday, April 18 from 9 AM – 10:30 AM

Join us for one of our newest heartwarming traditions – the Blessing of the Animals! This special event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the joy our pets bring to our lives and to ask God’s blessing over them. Our pastors will be present to offer individual blessings for your beloved pets.

Who’s Invited? All pets — and their humans!

Come enjoy a relaxed and joyful atmosphere as we gather together. We’ll have pigs in blankets, donut holes, beverages and other tasty treats for everyone to enjoy. Furry or not!

Be sure to bring a chair so you can sit comfortably, visit with friends, and watch all the adorable pets receive their blessings. 

Whether your companion has fur, feathers, or whiskers, we can’t wait to celebrate them with you. Invite a friend or neighbor to join us for this sweet time of fellowship and gratitude of God’s creation!

We ask that you please bring an item for a local shelter to help out our other furry friends in need. 

Registration is not required. We look forward to seeing you, and your pets!

Spring Food Drive was a Success!

Wildwood Food Pantry received approximately 4,500 pounds of food from the people of New Covenant United Methodist Church.

These donations were a great blessing to Wildwood Food Pantry and all of the people in need that they serve.

We appreciate your generosity as we continue to live into the vision of being Christ’s hands, feet, and voice in the world.

Fresh Expressions

New Covenant is pleased to offer a Fresh Expression ministry by providing a mini worship service for residents in many of the senior living facilities in The Villages and surrounding areas. Over the last two years we have grown from one stop at a senior living facility per week to over 22 stops at the many senior living facilities per week. On an average this ministry reaches over 500 people each week. This ministry is designed to share the love of Jesus with the residents in many ways.

If you have the gift of music, prayer, or sharing a devotion, being a part of this ministry may be a good fit for you. We are always in need of new volunteers especially as the seasonal residents head home. 

All volunteers for this Fresh Expression undergo training in protecting vulnerable adults as well as a background check.

To learn more about getting involved, please contact Pastor Donna Hendren.

Delight Yourself in the Lord

Delight yourself also in the lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalms 37:4

I hang onto this verse for dear life. Here’s what I have learned about Psalms 37:4 — it’s an “if then” proposition. If I delight myself in the Lord, THEN He will give me the desires of my heart. Yes! It’s true.

Legacy Giving

Remember New Covenant in your planned giving.

If you would like to know more about Legacy Giving, please contact Linda Stubits in our church office or click the link below. Thank you for considering our Legacy Giving Ministry.

Bargains & Blessings Truck

Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12

The Bargains & Blessings truck will be on the church campus to accept donations this weekend before worship services.

The Bargains & Blessings truck will be on the church campus next month on the regular schedule, first full weekend of the month (May 2 & 3).

We appreciate your ongoing support of this important ministry. Each item donated and sold helps to support children and families in our local community. 

If you are interested in volunteering or have large items to donate, please call the Bargains & Blessings Store at (352) 330-3333 for information about donation pick-up.

The Villages Concert Band

Friday, April 10 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

The Villages Concert Band closes its season with a thrilling musical adventure that spans nearly seven decades of exploration and imagination. JOURNEY – From Sputnik to SpaceX traces humanity’s fascination with the skies—from the historic 1957 launch of Sputnik 1, the world’s first artificial satellite, to the groundbreaking innovations of SpaceX, which continue to redefine space travel today.

It’s a concert filled with imagination, nostalgia, adventure, and heart —celebrating both where we’ve been and where we’re headed next. So fasten your seatbelts and prepare for liftoff. Come fly with us on a journey that reaches for the stars!

New Bible Study — Starting Point, A Conversation About Faith

Begins Saturday, April 11 from 3:30 – 4:45 PM

Welcome to “Starting Point” – an 8-session video-based study by Andy Stanley based on conversations about faith. Whether you’re new or old to faith, curious about God, or coming back to God after sometime away, it’s a place where your opinions and beliefs are valued, and no question is off limits.

Everything has a starting point – your life, your relationships, your education, your career — and sometimes we forget that faith has a starting point as well.

For some of us, our faith journey begins in childhood, or maybe you developed a framework of faith based on personal experience…or maybe you have no faith at all. But what if you could find a new starting point for faith?

Come as you are and build relationships with others as you discover your “starting point.” This class will be facilitated by Lee Williams.

Registration is required, but there is no cost for the class. We ask that you prepurchase the book. If you have any questions or need help with registration, please contact Pat Hill, Care Coordinator - Discipleship.

Love Your Neighbor Day

Sunday, April 12 from 11 AM – 12 PM at Banyan Residence 

We are excited to offer a Love Your Neighbor Day to all students fifth grade and older to volunteer at our Banyan Resident neighbors on County Rd 101. Please arrive at the church by 11 AM. Donna Hendren, Fresh Expressions Pastor, will lead an engaging and meaningful activity with the residents. 

Please register your student for this event. This is a wonderful opportunity to help our neighbors and be the hands, feet, and voice of Jesus.

The Villages Symphonic Winds

Sunday, April 12 at 6 PM

The Villages Symphonic Winds presents “The Vibrant Colors of Wind Music” featuring some of the finest works ever written for concert band, and two beautiful pieces originally written for other groups first and later transcribed for band including conductor Lewis Buckley’s own transcription for the band of a new Carmen Suite. This will be a classic concert band concert, made up of both original band music and transcriptions from other media, and it will beautifully display the remarkable talents of the musicians who make up the Symphonic Winds.

Horns Aplenty

Thursday April 16 at 6 PM

Horns Aplenty present a concert celebrating the noble, golden voice of the French horn in all its warmth, brilliance, and depth. This exciting program will feature music written especially for horns alongside beautifully crafted arrangements that showcase the instrument’s extraordinary range and character. Audiences will enjoy selections by composers from both Europe and the United States, highlighting the horn’s rich heritage and global artistry. We’re especially proud to present an arrangement by our very own Don Daily, adding a personal and homegrown touch to the evening. As a special highlight, Cornucopia — a horn quartet that grew out of Horns Aplenty, will return to the stage promising an unforgettable evening celebrating the rich, dynamic, and unmistakable sound of the French horn.

New Sunday Morning Study on Artificial Intelligence

Begins Sunday, April 19 at 8 AM and 10:10 AM in the Chapel

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has moved quickly from a novelty to something that shows up in nearly every part of our lives. What once felt like small conveniences now shapes how we work, connect, learn, and even worship. For many Christians, AI can still feel like something out of a sci-fi movie, stirring up worry, confusion, or distrust.

We are called to examine our faith as our world changes yet again. We will be using a study titled, “God and the Machine.” God and the Machine speaks to anyone who is unsure, curious, or somewhere in between. Ignoring AI is no longer an option, yet we are still called to approach every new tool with care and discernment. United Methodist pastor, Nathan Webb, guides readers through what AI means for the church — offering clarity, honesty, and hope. Along the way, you will explore how to welcome new possibilities without letting go of your values and how God may be opening surprising, grace-filled opportunities in this emerging world.

This six-week study Bible study will be led by Randy Cooke, Teaching Pastor. All who are interested are welcome to attend. If he does not know the answer to your question, Randy may be able to ask AI.

The Village Ringers

Sunday, April 19 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center

Village Ringers, under the direction of Bonnie Fisher, and Village Ringers TOO, directed by Cathy Bullock invite you to an unforgettable evening of music with their concert, “Ringing Reflections.”

Experience the shimmering sound of handbells paired with stunning visuals as you journey through iconic hits by The Beatles, thrilling music from Star Wars by John Williams, beloved American classics celebrating our nation’s 250th birthday, the electric joy of Mr. Blue Sky, the sly charm of The Pink Panther, and so much more. Join us for an evening of nostalgia, celebration, and breathtaking musical color — where every ring tells a story.

Blood Drive

Monday, April 20 from 12 PM – 6 PM in the West Parking Lot

New Covenant is hosting an upcoming Blood Drive with OneBlood.

Donors receive a $20 eGift card and an umbrella. You will also have a Wellness Checkup including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count, and cholesterol screening.

Facts:

·    Every two seconds of every day, someone needs blood.

·    Only 3% of those who are eligible actually donate blood.

Appointments are encouraged!

The Villages Flute Choir

Tuesday, April 21 at 7 PM

The Villages Flute Choir invites you to “Animals, Legends and Whimsy,” a delightful concert celebrating music inspired by imagination, storytelling, and the natural world. This enchanting program brings together elegance, humor, and a touch of mystery as the beautiful voices of the flute family bring beloved favorites to life. Join us for a captivating musical journey filled with color, character, and whimsical sound. 

The Chosen Season 3

Begins Wednesday, April 22 from 2 PM – 4 PM

The next season of The Chosen will run for 8 weeks – one episode per week. Each session starts in the Chapel where we watch the episode together and then continues in breakout sessions where we discuss the messages we glean from the program. Each episode stands alone, so feel free to drop in and join us as you are able. 

Season 3 of "The Chosen" explores transformative encounters with Jesus, focusing on themes of forgiveness, faith, and community, while following the disciples' growth and challenges. The third season portrays the increasing popularity of Jesus, which troubles different societal and political groups, including the Romans and the Pharisees. Following the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus sends His Twelve Apostles, two by two, to preach and perform miracles, leading to the disciples facing their greatest challenge. Jesus then returns to His hometown, Nazareth, which results in a shift to the ministry in the year of His popularity. After multiple miraculous occurrences, the season closes at the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus feeds thousands with loaves and fish and then walks on the water.

If you have any questions, please contact Randy Cooke, Teaching Pastor.

The Bands of the Villages Ensemble Concert

Wednesday, April 29 at 7 PM



Join us for a delightful evening of music as the Bands of The Villages present a special Ensemble Concert showcasing some of our most talented small groups. Featured ensembles include Flute Fanatics, Clarinet Connextions, Saxsations, Horns a Plenty, and The Villages Flute Choir, each bringing their own unique sound and style to the stage. Enjoy an entertaining and relaxed evening filled with variety, musical color, and the wonderful artistry of these outstanding ensembles. 

Bridging Gaps Field Trip

Thursday, April 30, from 8 AM to 4 PM

Bridging Gaps through Conversation will participate in an educational tour of the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune home and grave site in Daytona Beach. This is a unique opportunity to discuss topics such as race, religion, and politics with others in our community. We will stop for lunch (at your own cost).

Dr. Bethune is the founder of Bethune-Cookman University and was an avid daily reader of the Upper Room. Her home which was built in 1905 by A.B. Raddick, a black architect and builder is also listed as an United Methodist Historic Site.

Registration is required. For more information, please contact Janine Rogers, Mission & Outreach Director.

Visit Our ZOE Groups in Africa

September 9 to 18, 2026

If you are planning to go on the trip, all names of individuals must be submitted by May 1.

ZOE Empowers has a trip available to Zimbabwe, Africa, in September. The purpose of the trip is to visit our ZOE groups that are in various stages of their three-year training program. The training includes basic healthcare, food security, and information on how to move out of poverty. 

For more information, please contact Janine Rogers, Director of Missions & Outreach.

Lunch and Learn with Dr. Buck Blodgett

Tuesday, May 5 from 12 – 1 PM in the Fellowship Center

Dr. Blodgett will present part four of his “F Words” series on “Fortitude” at next month's Lunch and Learn. If you missed part one, two, and three, you are still welcome to join him. He continues to expand on his theme of “The LOVE>hate Project” message. “The F Words” include Forgiveness, Faith, Fruitfulness, and Fortitude. These study sessions are designed for all groups to hear about the transformative force of love!

All are welcome to join. There is no charge for this event, but we do ask that you preregister. At each session, you're invited to bring a sack lunch.

Dr. Buck’s book will be available for $20, benefitting the LOVE>hate Project.

The Choralettes

Tuesday, May 5 at 6 PM

Join The Choralettes for an uplifting evening of music as they present “Broadway Revue,” a lively celebration of beloved Broadway hits.

Featuring special guest, Janice Swartz, and the returning chorus, The Wonderlands, this entertaining program invites audiences on a nostalgic journey through favorite musical selections, with opportunities to sing along to some of the most cherished songs.

This free concert offers a joyful community experience, with a love offering collected to support church missions.

New Member Class (May 2026)

Thursday, May 7 at 1 PM in Classrooms 6/7

Membership is about commitment to Christ through a local church. Whether you are here full-time, or seasonally, we have a membership type that will fit your and your needs. Church membership is your opportunity to hold each other in care and love. We hope you will consider being a member and become more engaged with your church community.

If you have any questions or need help with registration, please contact Ashley Hill, First Impressions Manager.

Weekly Prayer Concerns

The Prayer Quilts on the Altar are for:

Ann, who is undergoing cancer surgery.

Cindy, who is recovering from cancer.

Gill, who has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma.

Jim, who is soon retiring from New Covenant.

Ken, who broke his pelvis and is having surgery.

Mark, who has been diagnosed with cancer.

Rebecca, who is having back surgery.

We request your prayers for these prayer quilts. Please click on the quilt to be taken to our Facebook Page, where you can ‘LIKE’ the post to virtually tie a knot. 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 experiencing life-changing challenges. If you would like to order a prayer quilt, please click the button below.

Chancel Flowers

To place an order for Chancel flowers, please use the button below. For any questions about Chancel flowers, please contact Sharon Weimert, Care Coordinator. Flower orders must be received by noon on Monday for flowers to be delivered that weekend.

Rev. Harold Hendren, Senior Pastor

Rev. Ellen Pollock, Associate Pastor