Message in a Minute

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

Spiritual Reflection

“Soar we, now, where Christ has led?

Following our exalted Head,

Made like Him, like Him we rise,

Ours the cross – the grave – the skies.”

Charles Welsey, “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today”

Your Guide to Holy Week Worship

Holy Week is here, and New Covenant has tailored offerings that are not only meaningful but also incredibly inviting for anyone, whether they’re familiar with church or just curious. It's the perfect opportunity to bring along someone you care about to share in the experience.

Extend the invitation this Holy Week; make it a point to invite someone to join you. Whether they’re exploring faith for the first time or simply love great music and stories, there’s something for everyone. It's more than just attending services; it's about sharing an experience that could be meaningful and transformative. Let's make this week an opportunity to connect, reflect, and celebrate together.

Holy Thursday Service, March 28 at 6 PM

Reflect on the significance of the Last Supper with a service that includes Holy Communion - a moment of deep reflection and connection as we contemplate Christ's humility and serving offered by Pastor Ellen.

Good Friday Service, March 29 at 12 PM

Experience the poignant beauty of Haydn's "The Seven Last Words of Christ," interspersed with the passion readings. This service promises to be both moving and memorable. Ryan Loeckel, violin with Sean Pollock, piano.

Saturday Contemporary Easter Service, March 30 at 5 PM

An engaging, contemporary service featuring our Praise Band—ideal for guests who enjoy a modern worship experience.

Easter Sunrise Service, March 31 at 6:30 AM

Witness the dawn of Easter Sunday in our East Parking Area, a unique service to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.

Easter Sunday Services, March 31 at 9 AM & 11 AM

Join us for the climax of Holy Week with services that feature the Chancel Choir, Brass, and Praise Ringers, celebrating Christ's resurrection in the culmination of our "Third Day"! Pastor Harold concludes our Lenten journey through those impacted first hand by the Risen One!

Children’s Church will be provided in the Chapel for children 11 years old and younger.

Staying Connected through Digital Ministry

We wanted to remind everyone about a couple of new ways to stay connected with your church family through the New Covenant Digital Ministry, especially whenever you’re traveling or unable to worship with us in person.

One way to stay connected is through our new Text in Church platform. To sign up for Text in Church, simply go to ncumcfl.com/next, click one of the “Connect” buttons, and fill out the brief form. Once you’re signed up, look for regular church updates via text messages. Official church text messages will come from (352) 758-4166, which you can also save to your phone.

A second way to stay connected is through the Church Online Platform on the church website (https://ncumcfl.com/online). This new platform gives you not only the ability to watch the online broadcasts of our worship services but also to chat with other congregants, request prayer, take sermon notes, and more.

We hope that you will take advantage of one of these exciting new ways to interact through our digital ministry.

In addition, you may watch a short video tutorial about these platforms from Mat Napp, Director, Digital and Production.

Fifth Sunday for the Florida Children's Home

Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31

Each Fifth Sunday weekend, New Covenant collects donations to support “Residing Hope” (formerly the Florida United Methodist Children’s Home). New Covenant was recently recognized during the Women’s Ministry Monthly Event as a “2023 Top 25 Giving Church.” The plaque was presented to Pastor Harold by Kitwana McTyer, President & CEO of Residing Hope and Rev. Brian Carr, Director of Church Relations. In 2023, New Covenant gave $50,779 to support the needs of the children who reside at the home. Please help continue to support these efforts by making a donation today.  

Horns A Plenty

Sunday, April 7 at 4 PM in the Fellowship Center

From Kentucky to Vermont; from Mahler to Mariachi; from Sassy to Prayerful — there will be something for everyone. Hear the variety of sounds and moods that we present with 3 to 14 performers on the versatile French Horn. The only instrument essential in bands, orchestras, brass quintets, and woodwind quintets; the horns show off their ability to stand on their own. You will be sure to enjoy the instrument that so many other musicians wish they could play.

Villages Concert Band

Thursday, April 11 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

Step into the vibrant world of music and springtime rejuvenation with "Celebrate Spring," a mesmerizing concert by The Villages Concert Band. Set against the backdrop of the season's renewal, this concert is a vibrant tapestry of melodies ranging from the spirited marches of "El Capitan" to the profound depths of "Dvorak Symphony #9" excerpts, and the rhythmic pulses of "Bolero." Revel in the nostalgia of "America" from West Side Story and hum along to the beloved tunes from "My Fair Lady." Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the essence of spring through a musical journey that promises to be as exhilarating as the season itself. Join us to capture the joy, renewal, and boundless energy of spring through the universal language of music.

All Tickets may also be purchased at the door ($15).

Generosity

A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.  (Proverbs 11:25)

Doesn’t that sound nice? Being refreshed and prospering, who wouldn’t want that! God’s gift to us when we give to others can be very uplifting; it warms our hearts and is good for the soul. We have many ways at New Covenant United Methodist Church that you can be generous through your time, talents, and your giving of tithes and offerings.

Legacy Giving 

When planning your estate, you feel good knowing that you are providing for the people and causes you care about.

Easter Floral Crosses

The Guild will have wire crosses at the East Entrance and the West Entrance this weekend for Easter. 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.

Holiday Closures

Please note that the Church Office and Bargains & Blessings Store will be closed from Thursday, March 28 at 1 PM through Monday, April 1.

The Church Office will reopen on Tuesday, April 2 at 9 AM, and Bargains & Blessings will reopen at 9:30 AM.

Sunday Education Classes for Adults

All classes have been cancelled on Easter Sunday. Everyone is welcome to join us again on Sunday, April 7. 

Men's Prayer Breakfast

Our Men's Prayer Breakfast on Tuesday, April 2 has been cancelled. All men are invited to join us again on Tuesday, April 9.

New Sermon Series Begins Next Weekend

“I Believe…”

The Apostles’ Creed is a powerful statement of our Christian belief. Starting with God our Father, maker of heaven and earth, the creed summarizes the key components of our belief and leads us to the promise of “everlasting life.” The anchors of the creed and our belief are God the father, son, and Holy Spirit. Using Adam Hamilton’s book “Creed” as a guide, over the next few weeks we are going to review what we believe, why we believe, and how can we apply our Christian belief in our everyday life. Come join us on this Christian journey of belief… “I believe.”

Bargains & Blessings Truck Next Weekend

The Bargains & Blessings Truck will be on the church campus to accept donations next weekend (April 6 & 7) before worship services. We appreciate your ongoing support of this important ministry.

If you have large items to donate, please call Bargains & Blessings at (352) 330-3333 for information about donation pick-up.

Small Group Invites You to Join Their New Study

Thursdays, April 4 through May 23 from 1–2:15 PM

The Revealed mixed small group invites you to an eight-week discussion of the book, “Letters from a Skeptic: A Son Wrestles with His Father’s Questions about Christianity,” by Gregory A. Boyd. Questions you’ve asked, or have been asked, about Jesus and Christianity are given very thorough examination.

You may purchase your book through Amazon. For more information about joining the group, please contact Sherry and Gary Eldred.

The Villages Flute Choir presents

The Beauty of the Earth

Thursday, April 4 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center 

Immerse yourself in the enchanting fusion of nature and melody as The Villages Flute Choir unveils “The Beauty of the Earth.” Our carefully selected repertoire includes evocative pieces like On Wings of the Wind, Songs of the Ocean, Forest Scenes, Water Music Suite, and the timeless What a Wonderful World, among others. Allow the rich tapestry of sounds from an array of flutes to transport you to a realm where music mirrors the splendor of the natural world. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the melodies that celebrate the Earth's magnificence. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the unique charm of The Villages Flute Choir.

Tickets may also be purchased at the door ($15).

The Spirited Singles Class Offers a New Study

Beginning Sunday, April 7 in Classroom 3

Joy is everywhere in the book of Philippians. The emotion that Paul poured out in his letter to the church in Philippi shines through in every verse — and Paul wrote it as a prisoner chained to a Roman guard. What gives the Apostle Paul such resounding joy, even in the face of suffering and persecution? In this six-session study, bestselling author and pastor Mark Batterson serves as a tour guide on the letter to the Philippians, uncovering the major themes of joy, gratitude, unity, and purpose found in this inspiring letter. The heartbeat of Philippians is for believers to have a Jesus-centered vision of life; a radical vision that, when seen fully, enables us to embrace joy no matter the circumstances. Please join us — all are welcome!

Village Ringers

Sunday, April 14 at 3 PM in the Fellowship Center

Village Ringers present "Put Your Dancin' Shoes On!" Directed by Bonnie Fisher, come hear - and see live dancers - as handbells perform beautiful dances of all sorts - waltz, folk, Irish, line dance, even Doo-Wop! You'll have the opportunity to cut a rug yourself!

Tickets may also be purchased at the door ($15).

Terrific Tuesday Dinner Event (April 2024)

Tuesday, April 16 from 4:45 PM – 7 PM

Pastor Harold is leading a Terrific Tuesday series titled, “Jesus by the Sea.” During the three-year ministry of Jesus, He spent more time around the Sea of Galilee than any other location. We find that the greatest teachings, miracles, and callings of Jesus came around that body of water. During this series, Pastor Harold will pick a key event that is connected to the Sea of Galilee and explore the meaning with us. Join us as we follow Jesus around the lake. There is plenty to learn and discover. Join us as Pastor Harold is going to teach on Jesus turning the “water into wine.”

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

Menu: Caesar Salad, Breaded Veal Cutlet Parmigiana, Baked Ziti Pasta, Italian Green Beans, Dinner Roll & Butter, Tiramisu



Registration is required for dinner ($12). To register, please use the button below.

Women's Monthly Gathering (April 2024)

“Make Me a Blessing”

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

Join the women this month as we learn how God can “Make Me a Blessing”! We have a couple of surprises in store for you – so you don’t want to miss out! Pastor Ellen will kick us off with a devotion on God’s promise to Abraham about blessings and an extra special musical guest, Angie Rose, will bless us with special music! For the mission this month, we will be highlighting the blessing of several local and international missions in our community and world! As always, Chef John is preparing something extra wonderful for us as we share blessings with our friends for lunch!

Menu: Basil Chicken Sandwich with Fresh Mozzarella Cheese on a Brioche Roll, Almond Strawberry & Spinach Salad, Sweet Potato Chips, Chocolate Mousse Cake

 

Registration is required ($10). If you have any questions, please contact Pat Hill.

The Choralettes present "An American Journey"

Tuesday, April 30 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center

Experience the spirit of America like never before! Join the Villages Choralettes for an electrifying concert, "An American Journey," as we embark on a musical odyssey celebrating the very essence of our great nation. This isn't just a concert; it's a heart-stirring tribute to the heroes who have safeguarded our freedom and a nostalgic voyage through the timeless songs that echo the soul of America.

Prepare to be captivated by the power of music and community spirit in an evening where every note resonates with the stories of our land. Sing along with us, rekindle your patriotic pride, and revel in the melodies that have shaped our country's legacy.



This event is more than just entertainment; it's an opportunity to give back. Admission is free, but your generous love offerings will illuminate the paths of young souls embarking on missions of hope and service. Don't miss this chance to celebrate America and support a noble cause. Let's fill the air with music and our hearts with pride. Join us on this unforgettable American Journey!

Admission is Free (A Love Offering will be taken to support Youth Missions)

Holy Land Trip 2025

Monday, March 31–Tuesday, April 9, 2025

Pastor Harold will lead another Christian pilgrimage to the Holy Land next year. The tour will include Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Sea of Galilee, Jacob’s Well, Samaria, Emmaus, Megiddo, Mount Carmel, Jericho, Qumran, Masada, and the Dead Sea. Pastor Harold will hold an “information meeting” in the near future. 

To learn more about this trip, please click the button below to read the full brochure. Brochures are also located at the “Welcome Center” in the East Narthex. To register, please visit the EO website.

Please Be Aware of the New Stop Signs

On Monday, March 18, new multi-way stop signs were placed at the intersection of CR 101 and Woodridge Drive. This intersection is located at the northeast corner of New Covenant and may impact anyone who uses the church entrance on CR 101.

The Sumter County Sheriffs are patrolling this area. Please observe the posted speed and stop signs.

Bargains & Blessing Volunteers Needed

Bargains & Blessing Resale Store is looking for volunteers that can help with a variety of duties, including scheduling, cashiering, labeling items for sale, sorting items that come in, helping customers, and Family Interface. 

Any amount of time you can provide Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM – 4 PM would be appreciated. If you are interested, please contact Stephanie Ashkenaz at (352) 330-3333, or send her an email.

Stephen Ministry

Sometimes, we need a compassionate, impartial ear to listen to us. Stephen Ministers are just that. Whether you are experiencing fatigue from caregiving, a difficult diagnosis, the loss of a loved one, or other challenges, Stephen Ministers are well equipped to listen and offer care. Each Stephen Minister goes through 50 plus hours of training to ensure that they are well prepared for any concern. 

Stephen Ministers will be a safe, confidential place to speak and share. Maybe you need this kind of care. Please contact Pastor Ellen for more information.

Bob & Carol Alspach

Jeff Bain Family and Sonya

Weston Hines and family

Larry Johnson

Virginia Carolyn Lee

Nicole

Sharon Rieve

Bill & Linda Samuels

Mary Beth Zust

Prayers Quilts

Prayers 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...

Mary Taylor, family and friends on the passing of her husband, Col. Larry A. Taylor.

Bill Schofield, family and friends on the passing of his wife, Darlene Schofield.

Bill & Peg Burke, family and friends on the passing of their daughter, Sandra Burke.

Our Altar Flowers have been provided by:

Patricia Santos in celebration of my birthday. 

Eleanor Harris in memory of Val Harris.

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, Care & Discipleship Ministry Assistant, using the button below.