Message in a Minute

Click the image above to hear from Pastor Harold as well as to learn about our Three Key Announcements for this week!

Spiritual Reflection

“Teamwork is the foundation of success. The three universal questions that an individual asks of his/her coach, player, employee, employer are: Can I trust you? Are you committed to excellence? And, do you care about me?” 

Lou Holtz

Terrific Tuesday Fall Dinner Event (January 2024)

Tuesday, January 16, 2024 beginning at 4:30 PM

Join us for our first Terrific Tuesday of the new year as Pastor Harold shares photos from his “Journeys of Paul” tour and highlights some of the Biblical, historical sites that are associated with the Apostle Paul’s scriptures.

You may also come at 5:45 PM just to hear Pastor Harold speak without attending dinner — no charge and no registration required for the presentation only.

Menu: Cream of Mushroom Soup, Roast Top Round of Beef, Pan Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Peas, Carrots & Turnips, Roll, Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

(menu is subject to change due to food availability).

Registration is required ($12). If you need help registering, please contact Ashley Hill.

Women's Monthly Program (January 2024)

“Angels Among Us”

Thursday, January 18 from 10–11:30 AM (with lunch to follow)

Angels are everywhere—both heavenly and earthly ones. We will be reading about angels in the Bible, hearing stories of real angel visits, and also hear about earthly angel encounters. We'll enjoy exploring that angels are among us, led by Shirley Bunny. We'll even have an opportunity to "look like an angel" through a photo opportunity. Be sure to register and enjoy lunch following the program.

Menu: Taco bar (choice of ground beef or chicken), soft (flour) or crisp (corn) tortillas, mild tomato salsa, fresh pineapple salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, Cilantro lime rice, Mexican street corn salad, and Angel food cake with strawberries.

Registration is required ($10). If you need assistance registering, please contact Pat Hill.

Alzheimer’s Ministries

Thursdays at 10 AM in Classrooms 2 and 3

New Covenant is very honored to have an excellent resource in our Alzheimer’s Support Groups (for caregivers) and Alzheimer’s Respite Care (for the loved ones). We meet every week with Respite Care in Classroom 6/7. The loved ones are challenged with games, songs and entertainment while their caregiver is in the support group. Our groups are free and open to the public, with special events, speakers and others skilled in the topic of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Our own Social Worker, Jackie Kuhn-Damron, organizes these groups. If you are interested in knowing more, or want to volunteer, please contact Jackie by using the email button below.

Seeds of Hope

Friday, February 2 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

Join us for a heartwarming evening at the "Seeds of Hope" concert, a special event to benefit the Wildwood Food Pantry. For a $15 donation at the door, you'll gain entry to an unforgettable night of gospel music. The concert features the extraordinary Wes Hampton of The Gaither Vocal Band, The New Covenant UMC Chancel Choir, and the Worship Band featuring Angie Rose, Jan Lavin, Mark Schmidt, Janice Swartz and Sean Pollock.

Wes Hampton, known for his soulful gospel renditions, will share his passion for music in this special performance. Wes has won numerous awards, including a Grammy in 2009 for the Gaither Vocal Band album, "Lovin' Life," and was also nominated with the GVB for a Grammy for three more albums. Wes, along with the Gaither Vocal Band, has gone on to win numerous Gospel Music Association Dove Awards over the years as well. Wes also won the 2006 Singing News Horizon Individual Fan Award for best new artist. In 2018, Wes and the GVB had the honor of singing at Billy Graham's memorial service in Charlotte, NC, where President Trump and Vice President Pence were in attendance.

Your presence and contributions at this event will not only provide you with an evening of uplifting music but also support the vital work of the Wildwood Food Pantry. Come, be moved by the power of gospel music, and help sow the "Seeds of Hope" in our community. Remember, every ticket is a step towards making a difference. We look forward to welcoming you!

The Glory of God

So, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)

We glorify God when we invest His money in things that are aligned with His values. We dishonor God when we invest His money in things that violate His values and do harm. This verse reminds us to carefully and joyfully consider how we can bring honor and glory to the name of Jesus in everything we do.

Legacy Giving 

The purpose of the legacy fund is to endow and support the lasting impact of New Covenant’s ministry and mission.

2023 Contribution Statements

Your contribution statement will be emailed on Wednesday, January 24, and paper statements will be mailed out the following two days to those who do not have an email address in our system. 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. 

Attached to the email or letter you receive from the church will be a “Ministry Impact” sheet celebrating some of the highlights from this past year.

If you have not received your statement by the end of January, or if you have any questions, please contact the Church Office at (352) 750-4529.

Special Accessibility in the Christian Life Center Creates Enhanced Worship Experience for All

We're thrilled to announce an exciting addition to the Christian Life Center – a dedicated space for individuals with sight impairments. Thanks to our Worship Tech Manager, Mat Napp, we've set up a specialized TV on the East side of the Christian Life Center, mirroring the main projectors to ensure a unified experience. This initiative is a work in progress, underscoring our commitment to enhancing worship experiences for everyone. We believe in creating an inclusive environment, and this is just one step forward in making our services more accessible.

We also have designated handicap seating within the worship area, ensuring that every member of our community can comfortably participate in our worship experiences.

In 2019, we introduced the addition of the "Hearing Loop" assisted listening system. This system ensures that individuals with hearing challenges can fully engage with our services. You simply switch your hearing device to "T" (telephone). For more information on the Hearing Loop, click the button below.

All these enhancements are part of our ongoing commitment to creating an environment where all feel welcome and included.

New Covenant Name Badges and ID Cards 

One of the ways it is helpful to get to know people’s names is by wearing a name tag! Our pastors love to call people by their name in greeting and in communion time, so please make a point of wearing your name tag. If you don’t have one, you can purchase one online or visit the Computer Center after worship services.

Everywhere you go, you have an ID card — whether it is the gym, the grocery store, or a rec center. An important part of being hospitable is by scanning your New Covenant ID card when you come in. This helps us know you are present at worship or at particular events. It is great when we get to learn names this way or know you have been here. In a large church, it can be easy to feel lost but this helps the pastors and staff know you. You can get an ID card on the weekends at the Computer Center or during the week at the Administrative office. 

Early Risers and Late Risers Sunday School Classes begin “The God Who Speaks”

Begins January 14 at 8 AM and 10 AM

There is a war raging around us — in society, in our churches, and in our homes. It is not a battle over marriage, race, or the sexual revolution. Rather, it is a battle for the truth. On Sunday mornings for eight weeks, we will review how God speaks to us through Scripture. How does the inspired Word of God inspire us and challenge us to live our lives? "The God Who Speaks" is an eight-part film series that traces the evidence of the Bible’s authority through interviews with some of the world’s most respected biblical scholars. This film answers common objections about the Bible’s reliability and equips believers to confidently base their lives on the power of God’s Word. This is an interactive study which will challenge us all to think about the role of the Bible in our lives. New Covenant's Teaching Pastor, Randy Cooke, is co-leading this study. No registration is required.

Beloved Community Sunday School Class begins “Reckless Love”

Begins January 14 at 10:15 AM

In his exploration of Jesus’ teaching and travels with his disciples, Bishop Tom Berlin (Bishop of the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church) suggests that Jesus teaches us how to love God with heart, soul, mind, and strength by showing us how to love our neighbor. While many hope to learn to be better family, friends, leaders, and neighbors by finding a deeper relationship with God, what if becoming a better neighbor leads you to that deeper love of God? In "Reckless Love," you will consider your life, and learn how loving the people around you will completely renew your faith and give you a new experience of loving God. No registration is required; book is optional.

Fill “Our” Bus with Love for the Florida United Methodist Children’s Home

Several months ago, one of our Small Groups took a field trip to visit the Florida United Methodist Children’s Home in Enterprise, Florida. What began as a pleasurable day trip ended with a passion in this group's hearts to do more than a Fifth Sunday offering for the kids. 

Beginning, Sunday, January 14 through February 15, there will be a display outside the church Library in the East Narthex. Part of the display will consist of decorated boxes for you to donate needed items and gifts to the children. Please see the list of items below. Our filled church bus will make its delivery to the children’s home the end of February. Please help to “Fill the Bus with Love” for the children!

Disciple II Fast Track New Testament (January 2024)

Wednesdays, January 17 – April 3, 2024 from 2 – 3:30 PM

“Into the Word Into the World” identifies some needs in the world for which ministry is needed and suggests possible responses, then invites participants to summarize the scripture message that will shape their ministry and to decide what response and commitment to make to that message. Each week you will be guided in experiencing the gift of Sabbath rest and renewal. Classes meet for 24 weeks. Daily preparation is manageable, with 3–5 chapters of daily Bible reading. Facilitated by George Dejager.

Registration is required ($20). If you need help registering, please contact Pat Hill.

The Villages Swing Band - Serenade in Swing

Thursday, January 18 at 7:00 PM  9:00 PM

Let us transport you to a bygone era of music, as the exhilarating rhythms of the Villages Swing Band take center stage. With toe-tapping melodies and infectious energy, this concert promises an unforgettable evening of timeless classics and electrifying performances. Get ready to swing and sway to the harmonious sounds of “Serenade in Swing” and relive the magic of the swing era.

GriefShare

Mondays, January 22 through April 22, 2024 from 10 AM–12 PM

Our next session of GriefShare will begin in January. If you know someone who is walking the journey of grief, please invite them to participate in GriefShare. Our facilitators are not only trained in the curriculum, but have also experienced their own seasons of loss of a loved one. GriefShare is an international program designed to help those who are in this particular time of their life. 

Registration is required ($25). For more information, please contact Sharon Weimert, Ministry Specialist.

The Villages Wind Ensemble presents "Hollywood Milestone"

Sunday, February 4 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center

Join us for an extraordinary musical experience at The Villages Symphonic Winds' Winter Concert, "Hollywood Milestones." This captivating evening features a diverse selection of pieces, including the thrilling "Freefall," the delightful "Handel in the Strand," and the exotic "Tahiti Trot." Embrace the charm of "Autumn Ridge," and journey through our "Young at Heart" section with the whimsical "Legend of the Lamb" and the lively "Tarantella." March to the beat of Sousa's "U.S. Field Artillery March," be moved by the majestic "Jerusalem," and delve into the mystical "Ghost Dances" and the vibrant "Fuego del Alma." The concert culminates with the "Hollywood Milestones" suite, a homage to the iconic film scores that have enchanted audiences for generations. This evening promises a blend of nostalgia, excitement, and awe-inspiring musical talent, making it an event not to be missed!

New Member Class

Wednesday, March 6 at 1 PM in the Chapel

Are you interested in becoming a member of New Covenant United Methodist Church? We have a couple of options for you. First, we offer an informational, in-person New Member class. You can register for this class online, or contact Ashley Hill.  Second, we also have a virtual video option available for those who are interested in partnering with New Covenant but live out of our area. 

Membership, in New Covenant or any United Methodist Church, means you will support the UMC by your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service and your witness. All of these are very important components of our Wesleyan heritage.  

For more information, please contact Ashley Hill.

New Covenant Columbarium

We are very fortunate at New Covenant to have our own Columbarium in the East Parking Lot. We were very blessed to have a group of forebears who felt this was an important offering to New Covenant members. 

The Columbarium has expanded over the years, and added lovely features such as benches and the fountain. The Columbarium Committee is always welcoming new members that are passionate about keeping our property well cared for and in good repair. 

If you are interested in knowing more about our Columbarium please click the button for our brochure, or contact Sharon Weimert, Ministry Specialist, and she will be happy to help!

Jeff Bain Family and Sonya

Robert & Mary Beth Aguilar

Barbara Conrad

Ginny Davis

Angela Ennis

Allan Forest 

Jane Frum

Ken Heinaken

Dale & Eric Justice

Jeannette & Larry Lambert

Matt

Jeanne McDowell

Priscilla & John Moulds

Terry Payne

Michael Stafford

Tom Warmbrod

Barb Welsh

The prayer quilts on the altar are for...

Barbara, who is grieving the death of her husband.

George, who needs healing from multiple health issues.

Jeanne, who is recovering from heart valve replacement surgery.

Jennifer, who has been diagnosed with lymphoma.

Kim, who is grieving the death of her father.

Teri, who needs healing and strength.

We request your prayers for these prayer quilts. Please pray for healing, comfort, and peace. Click on the quilt to be taken to our Facebook Page, where you can "Like" the post to tie a knot virtually.

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

Rev. Kathy Hudak-Yoakum, family and friends on the passing of her mother, Rennie Weckesser.

The family and friends of Anna Marie Dubey on her passing.

Our Altar Flowers have been provided by… 

David & Esther Ann Walton in celebration of their 50^th anniversary.

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.