Message in a Minute

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

Spiritual Reflection

“John held his faith deeply and he clearly wanted his readers to share his passion for life shaped by the incarnation. He weaves together narrative and theology in an attempt to open up the wonder and mystery of the incarnation… “He loved God and Jesus deeply, and he invites his readers to share that love.”

Gail O’Day

Bridging Gaps Through Conversation

Wednesday, January 22 from 1 PM – 3:30 PM in the Chapel 

Bridging Gaps Through Conversation gives us a unique opportunity to continue to discuss topics such as race, religion, and politics with others in our community.  

In our first meeting of the new year, Rev. Sarah Campbell, PhD will be here to offer us a time of interactive learning and discussion as we explore how we can navigate the intersectionality of race and sexuality and “bridge the gap” in offering understanding, respect, compassion, and love to all persons.

Light refreshments will be served.  Registration is required. For more information, please contact Janine Rogers, Missions & Outreach Director.

Discover New Covenant is Almost Here!

Saturday & Sunday, January 25-26, between Worship Services

Mark your calendars as we host our next Discover New Covenant – a wonderful opportunity to explore the many ministry and mission opportunities available at our church. 

Volunteering isn’t just about giving back; it’s also about growing spiritually and improving your well-being. Studies show that volunteering can boost both mental and physical health by fostering meaningful connections and reducing feelings of isolation. It’s a chance to make a difference while also finding a deeper sense of purpose. 

At New Covenant, we’re blessed to offer a variety of ministries and missions that fit different talents, interests, and passions. Whether you feel called to work with children, care for our community, or support global missions, there is a place for your to serve. 

We invite you to join us next weekend to explore these opportunities, meet ministry leaders, and discover how you can make a difference. 

Come see where your passion can serve God’s purpose. We look forward to welcoming you to this special event!

Symphonic Winds

Sunday, February 2 at 6 PM in the Christian Life Center

This concert will welcome our new Conductor, Lewis Buckley to our podium for the first time. Mr. Buckley is the Conductor Laureate of The U.S. Coast Guard Band, the organization he was associated with for his entire 35 year military career. The program will feature an exciting cross-section of wind band literature, from two famous marches (The Billboard and The Klaxon) to selections from West Side Story. In between, the listener will hear everything from Frank Ticheli's exciting Sun Dance, Howard Hanson's gorgeous Chorale and Alleluia, Gabriel's Oboe (a beautiful trumpet solo performed by Principal Trumpeter Greg Weber), to famous movie theme marches by multiple Oscar-winning film composer John Williams. Please join us in welcoming our new Conductor to his first concert with us!

Tickets are required ($20).

2024 Contribution Statements and Impact Report

I want to thank you for another fantastic year. We have accomplished tremendous things for the Kingdom of God through your Christian commitment, stewardship, and support. As stated in our vision statement, we are “to be a thriving body of Christ by being His hands, feet, and voice in the world.” As indicated in our Ministry Impact Report, you can see we continue to live into that vision. Because of your faithful giving, thousands of lives continue to be positively impacted and significantly influenced. 

Rev. Harold Hendren, Senior Pastor

Your contribution statement will be emailed on Wednesday, January 22, and paper statements will be mailed out the following two days to those who do not have an email address in our system or have previously requested a paper statement. This year, the Finance Committee has determined that contribution statements will be sent out to those with annual contributions of $500 or more. 

If you do not receive your email, please check your spam folder. For those of you who would like to access your contribution statement earlier, please click the button below for a tutorial on how to access your portal and print your own contribution statement. 

You will also receive a stewardship letter and a Ministry Impact Report celebrating some of the highlights from this past year.

If you have any questions, please visit the Computer Center after worship services on 1/25 and 1/26 and see Linda Stubits from the Finance Office.

Godly Contentment in Christ

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.  (Philippians 4:11-13)

These verses speak to the hope and strength we find in Christ, no matter what our financial situation is.  When you find Godly contentment in Christ, you can have hope and strength knowing that He is in control and that He loves you. Having God’s strength on your side can give you that extra boost you need to move forward to help others.

Legacy Giving

Over 50 percent of people die without a will. Do you have one?

Mike Williams, Christian Comedian 

Friday, January 17 at 6 PM in the Christian Life Center

Get ready for an evening of laughter, inspiration, and heartfelt stories as we welcome acclaimed Christian comedian Mike Williams. Known as a "hilarious storyteller, songwriter, and theologian," Mike Williams defies stereotypes. With over three decades of ministry experience, countless TV and radio appearances, and recognition as the Gospel Music Association's Dove Award-winning Comedian of the Year, Mike's credentials speak volumes. His comedy specials have been featured on Dry Bar and Bananas TV, and his works are regularly aired on SiriusXM. Beyond his humor, Mike has authored 20 books, including a marriage guide co-written with his wife of 38 years, Terica.

Mike's life story is as inspiring as his humor. As a rescued child from an inner-city background, he now uses his platform to inspire others, sharing his journey of faith, adoption, and resilience. In 2010, he and his family launched Cups Mission, an outreach serving trafficked children and impoverished communities in places like the Dominican Republic, Malawi, and Mexico City. His mission has grown to include schools, churches, and full-time staff dedicated to serving those in need.

Join us for an unforgettable evening that promises to leave you laughing, inspired, and encouraged. This special performance is free and open to the public. A love offering will be collected to support his ongoing mission work and the New Covenant Student Ministry.

UMCOR — United Methodist Committee on Relief

If you would like to make a donation to UMCOR toward the wildfires in California, a special fund has been set up — the Los Angeles Fires Recovery Fund – where you can contribute directly towards relief and recovery from the effects of the winds and firestorms this week. 

Check donations should be payable to the California-Pacific Conference and mailed to California-Pacific Conference, Los Angeles Fires Recovery Fund, PO Box 6006, Pasadena CA 91102.

Our hearts and prayers continue to be with those in need.

Breaking the Code (January 2025)

Thursdays, January 30 – March 13 from 10 AM – 12 PM

The Book of Revelation contains passages of great beauty and comfort as well as passages that strike us as bizarre, bewildering and sometimes frightening. So how can we discern God's message in this book? Apostle John sent this 'revelation' to the churches — to the community — to learn of God's message together. 

Facilitated by Judy Stuart, please join us in this 7-week study to discuss how Christ will fulfill His promise to return and re-establish God's throne on earth. See how He continually strives to bring us into God's New Eden with Him. Together we can Break the Code of Revelation — of promise — of hope — and finally unbelievable joy in the presence of Jesus Christ. 

Registration is required. For more information, please contact Pat Hill.

The Villages Concert Band Valentine Concert

Thursday, February 13 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

Join The Villages Concert Band for a special Valentine Concert titled "Young at Heart", a delightful journey through music that captures the wonder, whimsy, and joy of youth! Featuring beloved tunes from The Wizard of Oz, The Wonderful World of Disney, The Magic of Andrew Lloyd Webber, The Music of the Beatles, and Peter and the Wolf, along with playful selections like Cartoon Express and Circus Days, this concert will enchant audiences of all ages. Let the sounds of nostalgia and imagination bring out your inner child!

The Choralettes present “Spices and Spouses”

Sunday, February 18 at 6 PM

Join The Choralettes as they present “Spices and Spouses,” a musical tribute to all the special people who fill our lives with friendship and love.  At this very special concert, we will also be honoring the memory of our dearly departed founding director, Joan Weintraub.  Come, reflect and remember, listen and sing along with the Choralettes for a heart-warming evening of music! 

This concert is free and open to the public.  A love offering will be collected for our continuing New Covenant ministries.

Hospitality Highlight – January 2025

Happy New Year and Welcome to 2025!

Each year, many of us come up with New Year’s resolutions – saving more money, traveling more, and my personal favorite, losing weight. But have you ever considered making service your resolution?

At New Covenant, we have countless opportunities to serve both internally within the church and externally in the community. Because we’re part of such a large church family, there are many ways to get involved. However, it can sometimes be overwhelming to know where to start. 

Why make serving a part of your life this year? Here are four reasons.

1.     Serving Increases Our Faith

When we serve, we see God working in the lives of others. Witnessing His power firsthand strengthens our own faith, reminding us that we’re part of something much bigger.

2.     Serving Helps Us Discover Our Purpose

Each of us is uniquely gifted by God. Through serving, we discover how valuable we are to His church. God uses our service to reveal our talents and gifts. When we serve in ways that align with those gifts, we experience the joy we were created for.

3.     Serving Builds Authentic Community

God places people in our lives to encourage, pray for, and tach us. Serving together strengthens our relationships with both Jesus and others, drawing us into a deeper sense of belonging. 

4.     Serving Refocuses Our Hearts on Jesus

Following Jesus means living as He did – through acts of service. When we serve, we take our focus off ourselves and place it on others. This simple act of obedience draws us closer to Christ and helps us experience His love in new ways.

We encourage you to start 2025 with a heart ready to serve!  Let’s make this year one of growth, faith, and community. We can’t wait to see you there!

Bargains & Blessings Schedulers Needed 

Schedulers are needed at our Bargains & Blessings Resale Store to schedule donations pick-ups.  Training will be provided; a computer is required.  You would access voicemails from your home, return the call on a private telephone number, determine the donations, and record the pickup on a computer template.

Schedulers are needed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and throughout a day to schedule for the day (or half day) by checking the voicemails every ½ hour.  Please contact Nait Armstrong or stop in the office at Bargains & Blessings.  This is a fun and rewarding opportunity.

Our Children Need You!

At New Covenant, we believe in surrounding our children in a loving and caring community where all can be nurtured and encouraged in a Christ-centered environment. We offer nursery during Sunday morning worship from 9 -10 AM and from 11 AM - 12 PM for children ages infant up to third grade.

If you love and enjoy children, we need you! Please contact Kylie Elstad, Student Ministry Assistant for information.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

Thursdays at 10 AM

Did you know that New Covenant has an amazing Alzheimer’s support group and respite care? Every week, the caregivers meet for support groups and their loved ones can be safe in the respite room. The loved ones enjoy songs, entertainment, and brain stimulating activities with a host of specially trained volunteers to help them have fun and participate! The caregivers get an opportunity to fellowship and share information with others who are walking the same journey in this role. 

For more information, please contact Jackie Damron, New Covenant’s Social Worker.

Ray Boeke

Carolyn Brandt

Mary Courtney

Susan Edwards

Dianne Gustafson

Melinda Hay

Jean Hollowell

Carolyn Lee

Brian Maderos

Clemmie & Pienea Mathis

Susan Rainey

Shaun Wilson

The parents & youth going to Rock the Universe

Those who have lost in the California wildfires

First responders & relief organizations

Prayer Quilt

Bill, who has had infections following surgery and man transfusions.

James, who has ALS.

Janine, who is having surgery.

Sandra, who suffered two strokes this month.

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...

Barbara Hamilton, daughters Patsi & Rebecca, friends and family on the passing of her husband, Robert “Bob” Hamilton.

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

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.