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

“Each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done.”

Bryan Stevenson

Year End Statement & Impact Report

2025 Contribution Statements

Your contribution statements were sent out last week, either via email or mail for those annual contributions of $500 or more. 

If you have an email address with us and have not received your email, please check your spam folder. For those of you who may not have received a statement but would like to access your contribution statement, please click the button below for a tutorial on how to access your portal and print your own contribution statement. 

Attached to the email or letter you received from the church was a “Ministry Impact” sheet celebrating some of the highlights from this past year. These are also available at the Computer Center and the Welcome Center.

If you have any questions this weekend (Saturday or Sunday), please stop by the Computer Center to see Linda Stubits, Finance Manager.  

A Night to Shine is Coming Soon

Friday, February 13, 2026

Our Night to Shine Prom is just around the corner, and we’re inviting our church family and community to partner with us in a meaningful way. As we prepare to welcome our honored guests with the love, dignity, and celebration they deserve, we rely on the generosity of people like you to help make the evening truly extraordinary.

Our Amazon Registry is filled with the specific items we need to create a joyful, welcoming, and memorable prom experience. Every single gift — big or small — makes a real difference. From traffic control supplies to snack bars and treats for the volunteer workers, to fun touches of sparkle that bring the night to life, your support directly blesses both our guests and our volunteers.

If you’re able, please consider purchasing an item from our Amazon Registry or making a monetary donation. Your kindness helps transform this event into a night overflowing with joy, inclusion, and God’s love.

Night To Shine Prayer Guide

Join us in prayer for the guests, caregivers, volunteers, and details of event by viewing this Prayer Guide provided by the Tim Tebow Foundation.

Thank you for being part of this beautiful ministry and for helping us shine His light in such a special way.

Lunch and Learn with Dr. Buck Blodgett

Tuesday, February 3 from 12 – 1 PM in the Fellowship Center

The first Tuesday of each month this spring, Dr. Buck Blodgett will present a four-part study called, “The F Words.”

“The F Words” include Forgiveness, Faith, Fruitfulness, and Fortitude. He continues to expand on his theme of “The LOVE>hate Project” message. 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.

Following dates will be March 3, April 7, and May 5. Each will require a separate registration.

Men's Breakfast with Dr. Buck Blodgett

Tuesday, February 3 at 7:30 AM

Dr. Blodgett will present his four-part series on “Forgiveness” the first Tuesday of each month through May 5.

Forgiveness. Faith. Fruitfulness. Fortitude — this four-part, faith-based series, “The F-Words,” is a personal journey, told from a Christian perspective. The most unstoppable and transformative force in this universe is love.

Registration is not required for Men's Breakfast. You may pay at the door ($7).

Bridging Gaps Field Trip

Thursday, February 19, 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.

Pleasing God

Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, “Who is the Lord?” Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God. (Proverbs 30:7-9)

The writer knows his own weaknesses and recognizes that either too much money or too little money can cause him to dishonor God. The focus is on living to please God, not on riches.

Legacy Giving

There is great joy in knowing your gift will be used to advance the Gospel.

The Villages Symphonic Winds Concert

Sunday, February 1 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center

The Villages Symphonic Winds, under the baton of Conductor Lewis Buckley, invite audiences to an exhilarating evening of some of the finest and most beloved works in the concert band repertoire. This vibrant program showcases the full power, color, and emotional range of the ensemble — from thrilling bursts of energy to moments of profound beauty.

Highlights include the unmistakable sparkle and drive of a classic Sousa march, followed by the irresistible rhythmic fire of the iconic “Mambo” from Leonard Bernstein’s, “West Side Story.” The program also features Eric Whitacre’s luminous musical portrait of a breathtaking autumn day in October, as well as Frank Ticheli’s playful and witty “Abracadabra,” contrasted by his deeply moving and heartfelt setting of the timeless hymn “Amazing Grace.” The concert builds to a rousing conclusion with Conductor Buckley’s own concert band transcription of the triumphant final movement from Antonín Dvořák’s New World Symphony.

Adding to the excitement of the evening, the featured soloist will be Lesan Van Syckle, Principal French Horn of the Symphonic Winds and New Covenant member. Van Syckle will perform one of the most dazzling and expressive horn solos in the repertoire — Paul Dukas,’ “Villanelle” — a true showcase of brilliance, lyricism, and technical mastery.

Tickets may be purchased at the door ($20).

Register Now

It is important when registering for an event or class to register early! This helps church staff adequately prepare for the number of people for room size and set-up, resources, and food quantity. We are also committed to being able to share the cut-off date of registrations per event. If an event is closed because we have met our maximum for space and food requirements, we will not be accepting walk-ins.

Please help us serve you better by registering for events using the links on our website or in your WeeklyWord emails. If you are unable to register from home, please call the church office and we will be happy to assist you.

When registering, please be sure you are logged into your portal account. Your portal account saves all your information, so you don’t have to retype it every time. If you do not have a portal account, or are unsure if you have an account, please contact the church office. To log in to your account or to register for a new account, please click the button below. If you have forgotten your username or password, you can change it here also.

“The Chosen” Season Two

Wednesdays, from 2-4 PM — February through May

“The Chosen” Season 2 follows Jesus as His fame grows, leading to larger crowds, new disciples, and escalating conflict, focusing heavily on the disciples' internal struggles to understand their roles, their growing community dynamics (especially Simon/Matthew tension), Mary Magdalene's relapse, and preparations for the Sermon on the Mount, while antagonists like Shmuel plot against Jesus, and Roman involvement increases.

The season highlights the “beatitudes,” showing Jesus's way of living and teaching amidst new challenges and deepening faith.

Registration is not required. However, we advise you to check specific dates (not all Wednesdays are concurrent). Please contact Pat Hill, Care Coordinator - Discipleship, for information.

Seeds of Hope Concert

Thursday, February 5 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

An Evening of Inspirational Songs with Sean Pollock and Friends is more than a concert—it’s a musical testimony. On this special night, Sean Pollock is joined by Angie Rose and Ryan Loeckel, backed by a live band, to share the gospel, sacred, and modern worship songs that have helped form his faith, calling, and years of ministry.

The program weaves together music that stirs the heart and steadies the soul— songs of comfort, songs of courage, songs that remind us who God is when life is loud, and songs that carry us when words run out. Some will feel like an old friend. Others may be new — but all are offered in the same spirit: honest worship and encouragement for the road we’re walking now.

Whether you come needing peace, hope, joy, or simply a place to breathe and be lifted, this evening is for you. Bring a friend, bring a neighbor, bring your own story—and come ready to sing along, reflect, and leave strengthened.

Come expecting a night of meaningful music, sincere worship, and the kind of community that reminds us we don’t travel this journey alone.

Free Concert. Love Offering will be accepted at the door which benefits The Wildwood Food Pantry and the Wildwood Soup Kitchen. Canned food donations are also welcomed.

Thank You for an Incredible “Discover New Covenant” Weekend

Discover New Covenant was a beautiful reminder of who we are as a church – a community rooted in welcome, service, and connection. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this ministry fair such a meaningful experience.

To all the ministries who participated: thank you for the time, creativity, and heart you poured into your tables and conversations. Your willingness to share your mission, your stories, and your passion made it easy for others to see how God is at work through you. From setup to teardown, from smiles to meaningful conversations, your presence mattered more than you know. 

To everyone who stopped by a table, asked questions, signed up, or simply listened – thank you for showing up with open hearts. Your curiosity and engagement are what bring these ministries to life and help our church continue to grow in faith and service.

And to our visitors: we are especially thankful you chose to spend your time with us. We hope Discover New Covenant offered a glimpse into the many ways this church seeks to love God, love others, and serve the world. You are always welcome here, and we’re so glad you were part of the weekend. Thank you for being part of this vibrant, generous, and faithful community. We can’t wait to see how God continues to move through the connections made this weekend.

Bargains & Blessings Truck

Saturday, February 7 and Sunday, February 8

The Bargains & Blessings truck will be on the church campus to accept donations next weekend before worship services. 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 have large items to donate, please call the Bargains & Blessings Store at (352) 330-3333 for information about donation pick-up.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Breakfast

Tuesday, February 17 at 7:30 AM

Did you know that the day before we start Lent on Ash Wednesday is called Shrove Tuesday? ‘Shrove’ is an ancient practice where we confess our sins before vowing to be better during Lent. On this day, people would use all their rich ingredients like butter, eggs, and sugar. Therefore, it became common to have pancakes on Shrove Tuesday. We offer everyone an opportunity to participate in this tradition.

All men and women are invited to share pancakes, eggs and sausage, fellowship, and a devotion focused on forgiveness and mercy as we prepare for our Lenten journey. On this special day — as honored guests of Men's Prayer Breakfast — all women will eat free. Men may pay at the door ($7).

Terrific Tuesday (February 2026)

Tuesday, February 17 from 4:45 PM – 7 PM



Lent is almost upon us. Come join us for a fun evening celebrating Mardi Gras. Dress up in your favorite Mardi Gras outfit and we will provide the beads and a photo. Pastor Harold will be teaching on the importance of Lent in our lives along with the historical and theological understandings of Lent. This will be an enjoyable and educational time as we move into this powerful season of Lent. 

Menu: Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya, Vegetable, Salad, Roll, and Dessert.

Registration is required ($14). If you have any questions, please contact Ashley Hill, First Impressions Manager.

A Sacred Beginning to Our Lenten Journey

Ash Wednesday, February 18

Imposition of Ashes: 9 AM – 10 AM in The Chapel (Come and Go)

Ash Wednesday Worship Service: 6 PM in the Christian Life Center, featuring The Chancel Choir and our pastors

Lent is a season of deep spiritual significance — a time set apart for reflection, repentance, and renewal. For 40 days, we are invited to journey with Christ, examining our hearts, surrendering our burdens, and drawing closer to God's transforming grace. This journey begins on Ash Wednesday, a day that reminds us of both our mortality and God's unending mercy.

On Ash Wednesday, we receive the sign of the cross in ashes — a powerful symbol of repentance and humility. The words spoken over us, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” call us to recognize our dependence on God. Yet, even in this solemn reminder, we find hope. The ashes are traced in the shape of the cross, pointing us to the promise of resurrection and new life in Christ.

Lent is not merely a season of giving things up; it is an opportunity to create space for God to work in our lives. It is a time to seek forgiveness, to renew our faith, and to prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter morning.

Whether you come in the morning for quiet prayer or gather with the community for evening worship, we encourage you to begin this journey with intention. Let us turn toward God together, embracing the grace that leads us from ashes to resurrection.

Women's Gathering (February 2026)

Thursday, February 19 from 10 AM – 11:30 AM (with lunch to follow)

Get ready for a program at the next Women’s Gathering of music, stories, and connection! Join us for a special event featuring the New Covenant Worship Team as they bring together a dynamic mix of traditional hymns, contemporary worship, and well-loved popular songs — perfect for listening, singing along, and soaking it all in.

Beyond the music, you’ll be invited into the conversation. During an engaging Q & A session, our talented musicians will share how they got their start, the journeys that shaped them, and the artists and songs that inspire them most. You’ll also hear fun behind-the-scenes stories from rehearsals and performances, along with insights into how they encourage and motivate one another as a team.

Come for the music, stay for the stories, and leave feeling more connected – to the worship, the musicians, and each other. 

Menu: Meatloaf with Cheese Potatoes, Vegetables, Dinner Roll, and Tiramisu.

Registration is required ($12). If you have any questions, please contact Pat Hill, Care Coordinator - Discipleship.

The Villages Concert Band

“An Evening of Timeless Romance”

Friday, February 20 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

“An Evening of Timeless Romance” will take you on a journey of romantic favorites from years gone by right up to the very present. Do you remember Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeves searching for each other in “Somewhere in Time”? Or, Yul Brenner and Jodie Foster dancing spiritedly together in “The King and I”? How about Christine and The Phantom in “Phantom of the Opera”? 

You will be reminded of all of these characters and much more as the Villages Concert Band presents music that is guaranteed to help you recall nostalgic memories from the past as well as enlivening current relationships from the present. Come and reminisce to jazz standards such as Henry Mancini’s “Moon River” and other classics like “Embraceable You” and “Funny Valentine” as well as the English/Irish tune “The Girl I Left Behind Me”!

Prepare for a night of beauty, nostalgia, and unforgettable music and bring your date — a memorable evening of fun and magic await!

New Lenten Study: Why Did Jesus Have to Die? The Meaning of the Crucifixion

Rejecting the idea that God NEEDED Jesus die, Adam Hamilton encourages us to ask what Jesus’ death MEANS. What if the cross isn’t a transaction to be explained, but a living Word from God meant to transform who we are and how we live. If you imagine or were taught that there is one correct answer to this question, this six-week video study by Adam Hamilton is for you.

If you are interested in participating in either a small group or Sunday morning study, please contact Pat Hill, Care Coordinator - Discipleship, for more information. Study begins the first week of Lent, February 22. All are welcome!

You may purchase the book from Amazon or Cokesbury. Please click below.

Thinking About Membership? We'd Love to Welcome You!

Wednesday, February 26 at 1 PM in the Chapel

Becoming a member at New Covenant is more than just filling out a form – it’s about saying yes to growing in your faith and connecting more deeply with this church family. Whether you live here full-time or spend just part of the year with us, there’s a membership option that fits your life and your journey.

Membership is a way we support one another in love, prayer, and accountability. It’s a step toward belonging and investing in something bigger than ourselves – God’s work through the local church.

If you’ve been thinking about making New Covenant your church home, we’d be honored to walk alongside you in that process. Have questions? Need help getting started? We'd love to speak with you! 

For more information, please contact Ashley Hill, First Impressions Manager.

The Celebration Brass Band

Sunday, March 8 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center

The Celebration Brass Band, under the dynamic baton of Lewis Buckley, invites you to an exciting spring concert in New Covenant’s newly renovated Fellowship Center. This engaging program showcases what brass bands do best — bringing to life a rich and colorful cross-section of music drawn from a wide range of original sources..

Audiences will enjoy works written especially for brass band, including the stately Prelude for an Occasion and the stirring march Silver Star, alongside beloved favorites from the world of musical theater and film such as An American in Paris, Can-Can, and selections from West Side Story. Adding a special highlight to the evening is the beautiful tenor horn solo Demelza, performed by New Covenant’s own Leslie Ann Van Syckle.

From powerful fanfares to lyrical melodies, this concert promises an evening of variety, virtuosity, and musical excitement. Don’t miss this wonderful celebration of brass band music!

Pickleball Players Needed

Sundays at 4 PM at Pimlico Rec Center

Recreational Pickleball takes place at Pimlico Rec Center. Following our fun play time, we enjoy a light dinner and good fellowship at a local fast-food restaurant. Beginners are welcome! For more information on Pickleball, please contact Roger Kassing. To see what other recreation opportunities New Covenant has, please click the Recreation button.

Weekly Prayer Concerns

The Prayer Quilts on the Altar are for:

Dan, who has cancer and needs surgery.

Dave, who has cancer.

Russ, who has serious health concerns.

Ruthie, who lost her only daughter.

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.

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

Sandy Simpson, family and friends on the passing of Robert “Bob” Simpson.

The family and friends of Brenda Sprague on her passing.

The Altar Flowers have been provided by:



Ann & Jim Heilbron in loving memory of our son, Brett, on his birthday.


Flower orders must be received by noon on Tuesday for flowers to be delivered that weekend. To place an order for altar flowers online, please use the button below.