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Message in a Minute
Click the image above to hear from Pastor Harold and to learn about the three Key Announcements for this week!
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Spiritual Reflection
“Yet I still believe in the will to live. I believe in positivity. I believe in optimism. I believe in hope, and I certainly believe in the power of prayer.”
Alex Trebek
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The Colours of Christmas: The Carols of John Rutter
Saturday, December 7 at 5 PM
Sunday, December 8 at 5 PM
Join us for an enchanting holiday concert celebrating the warmth and wonder of Christmas with the beloved carols of John Rutter! This year’s concert, The “Colours of Christmas,” features the powerful voices of The Chancel Choir, the harmonious tones of the Praise Ringers, and the rich sounds of a full orchestra, all under the masterful direction of conductor Sean Pollock.
Special performances by mezzo-soprano Angie Rose and tenor Mark Steven Schmidt will bring Rutter’s cherished carols to life, while Mark Kirschenbaum graces the stage to narrate Rutter’s whimsical fable, Brother Heinrich’s Christmas.
Tickets are free, but suggested donations are welcome. You are required to reserve your seat, and a limited number of “Friends of Music” tickets are available to purchase to support the concert series.
Please remember to have your TIX username and password if you would like assistance purchasing Christmas tickets at the Computer Center after worship services. Thank you!
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2024 Advent Devotional
We are offering an Advent Devotional this year to be a companion to Pastor Harold’s upcoming Advent sermon series titled, “Angels Watching Over Me.”
This devotional has been authored by many of our congregants and staff members and is formatted like the “Upper Room” devotional booklets.
Printed copies are available for pickup during weekend services, and you can access a digital copy by using the link below.
We hope that you will take advantage of this resource to help us all draw closer to Christ during this holy season.
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Journeys of Paul Cruise Tour
October 24 – November 4, 2025
Pastor Harold will lead another “Journeys of Paul” Cruise Tour. The pilgrimage will be highlighting the key locations where the Apostle Paul launched many of his first century churches such as Corinth and Thessaloniki. The trip also includes time in Santorini and Mykonos, as well as Athens, one of the most historic cities in the world. To register, please use the button below and follow the instructions on the webpage. You may download a brochure for more information. Brochures are also available in the church office and at the Welcome Center.
Pastor Harold will hold an information meeting on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 9 AM in the Chapel.
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Student Ministry Car Wash Fundraiser
We wish to extend our gratitude to everyone who was a part of the Car Wash Fundraiser this past weekend. Thanks to your participation and generosity, we raised over $1,400 to benefit ongoing ministries for our youth. Your continued support of the New Covenant Student Ministry is greatly appreciated.
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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. 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.
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Legacy Giving
Less than two percent of people leave anything in their will or trust to their church.
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Hurricane Response
We collected $12,507 for the hurricane disaster recovery that we sent to Florida Conference. Thank you for your continued support and prayers. We are grateful for the power of our United Methodist connection!
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Staff Love Offering
As Christmas approaches, we think of those who are special to us. The Staff-Parish Relations Team invites you to remember our church staff, who is committed to meeting the needs of our congregation and does so with grace and a servant attitude. All gifts received will be distributed equally among all regular employees. Checks may be made payable to NCUMC with “Staff Gift” indicated on the memo line. If you choose to participate, all donations must be in by Monday, December 9.
Thank you,
Bob Wotring (Chair, Staff-Parish Relations Team)
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Celebrate Brass Band Concert
Sunday, November 24, from 6 PM – 7:30 PM
Celebration Brass Band will perform a variety of music from the fast paced and up tempo familiars like "Meet the Flintstones" and "Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines" to the more solemn and somber special arrangement of "In the Bleak Mid-Winter" with tenor horn soloist, Margie Craver. You won't want to miss the robust flavor of the American spiritual in "Jubilation!" and the familiar strains of tunes from the "American Civil War Fantasy." Join us for this sure-to-be-special event!
You may purchase tickets at the door.
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Wildwood Food Pantry's Fall Food Drive
Please return your donation bags this weekend.
Volunteers will pick up your bags of food this weekend. Please place the bag next to your car or golf cart. Throughout the week, we also have bins that are conveniently located in both the East and West Narthexes for food donations. Thank you for helping to make a difference in others lives!
Each year the food pantry also provides calendars for the families who come to pick up food. If you are willing to donate a 2025 calendar for a family, please include it in your bag or bring it to Janine Rogers in the church administration building.
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Giving in the Spirit
Donations are due by Sunday, December 1
Giving in the Spirit provides a very meaningful way to bless others and share the joy of Christmas giving. Pick up a booklet at the Welcome Center, and entrance to the Christian Life Center during weekend worship, or in the Administration office during the week. Complete the form inside the booklet and put the form and your donation in the envelope and bring it to the Administration office or place it in the offering basket during worship services.
You may also make a donation online using the button below.
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“Heaven and Earth" Advent Study by Will Willimon
Sundays, beginning December 1 at 8 AM or 10:10 AM in the Chapel
In this four-week study, we will anticipate and celebrate the earth-shaking, life-transforming good news: God is coming to us! As we get ready for a new church year, we are offered a fresh start by accepting the greatest gift of all. Do we anticipate a new path from a God who is willing to show up among us and do something with us here and now?
The book is not required, however if you want to purchase the book, the link is below. The class may be available mid-week if there is enough interest. For more information, please contact Randy Cooke.
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“The Journey” Advent Study by Adam Hamilton
Sundays, beginning December 1 at 10:15 AM in Classroom 1
The Beloved Community Sunday School Class is offering “The Journey,” a four-week book and video study facilitated by Vicki Southworth.
Adam Hamilton travels from Nazareth to Bethlehem for a fascinating look at the birth of Jesus Christ. Using historical information, archeological findings, and personal reflections, Hamilton illuminates this most amazing moment in history. Follow the footsteps of Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and others and gain insight into your own journey with Christ.
All are welcome to join this class. The participants guide may be purchased through Amazon. For more information, please contact Pat Hill.
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Other Advent Studies
Advent Begins Sunday, December 1
Several groups and classes will be doing a four-week Advent study. If you or your small group is interested in participating in an Advent Study other than Sunday morning, please contact Pat Hill. She also has individual books available in her office. Here is a list of Advent studies from which to choose.
- Light of the World by Amy, by Jill Levine
- The Christmas Letters, by Magrey DeVega
- Incarnation by Adam Hamilton
- The Heart that Grew Three Sizes, by Matt Rawle
- An Unlikely Advent, by Rachel Billups
- Experiencing Christmas, by Matt Rawle
- The Redemption of Scrooge, by Matt Rawle
- The Angels of Christmas, by Susan Robb
- Faithful, by Adam Hamilton
- Almost Christmas and All the Good, by a compilation of authors.
- On the Way to Bethlehem, by Rob Fuquay
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Hope and Healing Service
Sunday, December 1 at 4 PM in the Chapel
At New Covenant, we seek throughout the year to provide support and walk with you on your journey of grief. As we prepare to enter the Advent and Christmas season, we will hold a special worship service. This service offers scripture, meditation, special music, and a time to light a candle in memory of your loved one. Pastor Jeff Vermilya will be giving the message at this special service.
Some churches refer to this as a “Blue Christmas” service; we offer this as a way not only to acknowledge our sadness but also to seek to experience comfort and peace during the upcoming holidays.
Our 13-week GriefShare® program begins in January 2025. Please watch the WeeklyWord for more information and registration dates.
If you have questions, please call Care Office at (352) 750-4529.
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Concert Band Christmas Concert
Tuesday, December 3 at 7 PM
Join us for " A Celebration of the Season," an enchanting evening with the Villages Concert Band as they fill the air with the spirit of Christmas! Delight in timeless favorites like "A Christmas Festival" and "Sleigh Ride." Be charmed by the whimsical "Parade of the Bumbling Wooden Soldiers," and enjoy the festive energy of "Pat-a-pan." The evening will also feature selections from "The Polar Express Concert Suite," bringing warmth and wonder to this magical holiday concert. Perfect for the whole family and a perfectly joyful way to ring in the season!
Tickets may also purchased at the door ($20).
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History of War Brides of WWII
(Sponsored by Women’s Ministry)
Thursday, December 5 from 3:30-4:30 PM in the Chapel
You are invited to come and hear Beth Braun — a Villages’ researcher of history — share with us about war brides of WWII. Beth has a multitude of information and photos with amazing stories about American soldiers who met and married women in foreign countries during the war. At the end of the war many reunited, and many did not, even those with babies. More than 150,000 women settled in every state struggling to learn the language and how to cook American foods, deal with a little-known husband, and meet in-laws. It was a challenging time for these ladies. This is a fascinating history lesson you won’t want to miss!
Snacks and drinks will be provided. For information, please contact Pat Hill.
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Women's Monthly Gathering December 2024
Thursday, December 12 from 10 – 11:30 AM (with lunch to follow)
Join our guest moderator, Lynn VanVeelen, as she takes us on a Christmas journey. The birth of Jesus initiated many journeys; Mary and Joseph’s, the Wisemen — and OUR journey as well. At our Christmas program, we’ll discover how our journey began with the birth of Christ and knits us together with grace and hope knowing Immanuel – GOD IS WITH US.
Menu: Mustard and Herb Crusted Pork Roast, Pan Gravy, Roasted Potatoes, Green Beans, Dinner Roll, Boston Cream Pie
Registration is required ($10). If you need assistance registering, please contact Pat Hill.
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Villages Flute Choir
Thursday, December 12 at 7 PM
Villages Flute Choir, under the direction of Linda Quinn, will present "A Musical Journey to the Holidays," performing classic tunes like "Morning Mood," "Vocalize," and "Sheep May Safely Graze." In addition, the group will delight all with holiday favorites including "The Nutcracker Short and Suite," "The Night Before Christmas," and "Jingle Bell Rock" as well as other festive tunes to get you in the mood for the season!
Tickets may also be purchased at the door ($15).
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Village Ringers & Horns A'Plenty
Friday, December 13 at 7 PM
The Village Ringers, under the direction of Bonnie Fisher, along with Horns A'Plenty, directed by Don Brannon, are combining forces for a magical evening of Christmas music entitled " A Golden Christmas." Attendees will be moved by the sounds of multiple french horns playing in harmony and amazed by the beauty and skills of handbells as they ring in the joyous season!
Tickets may also be purchased at the door ($15).
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A Quiet Christmas
Thursday, December 19 at 7 PM
Angie Rose and Ryan Loeckel invite you back once again for their combined concert experience: “A Quiet Christmas.” Quiet your heart and warm your spirit with an evening of your favorite Christmas melodies, intimately and beautifully performed with captivating visuals. Best friends and Villages favorites Angie Rose (piano/vocals) and Ryan Loeckel (violin/vocals) combine their talents for this exclusive annual performance! During such a busy season, take some time to reflect and relax with A Quiet Christmas.
Tickets are required to reserve your seat ($25 - $35).
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The Importance of Church Greeters
Creating a culture of hospitality in the church is vital, especially in making sure that new people feel seen, valued and embraced. While official greeters play a key role, the responsibly of welcoming newcomers is shared by everyone. Here are three reasons why every member should take on this task.
1) Prevents people from falling through the cracks.
An official greeter’s role is essential in ensuring that everyone who walks in is warmly welcomed. However, with all their responsibilities, it’s easy for newcomers to occasionally go unnoticed if the greeter is momentarily occupied. When everyone at the church tries to welcome others, new people are less likely to be overlooked, ensuring they feel connected from the start.
2) Create opportunities for deeper connections.
Greeters often have brief, friendly exchanges with each person to ensure everyone is acknowledged. Yet, these shorter interactions may not allow for deeper connections. When all members make an effort to engage newcomers, there’s a greater chance for meaningful conversations and lasting relations to form. By learning more about new people, members helps them feel genuinely known and appreciated.
3) Allows for varied connections across personalities.
Everyone connects differently. While some may enjoy a bubbly, outgoing greeter, others might feel more comfortable with a quieter, one on one interaction. The more people who reach out to newcomers, the more likely that person will find someone they naturally connect with, making them feel at home within the church.
Church isn’t simply about receiving; it’s about actively building community. When we all take ownership in greeting and engaging with newcomers, we help ensure the church is a place where everyone feels seen, loved, and accepted.
This Sunday, take a moment to look around. Is there someone new? Greet them. Is there a familiar face whose name you don’t know? Start a conversation. Let’s all do our part to make everyone feel like family.
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Parking Lot Greeters Needed
As part of our First Impressions Ministry, we’re excited to introduce a new opportunity, Parking Lot Greeters.
Parking lot greeters are the first faces that churchgoers and guests encounter when they arrive. For newcomers, this initial contact sets the tone for their experience with us. Greeters will assist with directions, help people find parking, and answer questions, like which door to enter.
The impact of this role goes beyond simple logistics — it’s about making everyone feel welcome and valued even before they step inside. Every interaction has the potential to make someone’s day a little brighter and let them know they’re seen and cared for.
If you’re interested in volunteering for this ministry, please contact Ashley Hill. Together, we can create a warm and welcoming environment from the moment people arrive.
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Fresh Expressions Volunteers Needed
Fresh Expressions is an international movement within our United Methodist family, serving by cultivating new Christian communities with new people, in new places, and in new ways.
At New Covenant, we have been carrying out this mission under the direction of Pastor Donna Hendren and 25 volunteers reaching out to a variety of independent living, assisted living, and memory care facilities throughout the Villages. We are currently ministering in 17 facilities, and may be able to add more in the coming months. We lead devotionals and provide individual prayer and support for residents in many settings. We truly would love to have more of our congregants involved in this ministry.
As of now, our schedule include times on Saturday morning at 11 AM and afternoons at 4 PM, Sunday mornings at 11 AM and Sunday afternoons at 2 PM, and 10 different times throughout the entire day on Tuesdays from 9 AM until 2 PM. Some weeks we minister to as many as 300 people. We feel so blessed to provide this ministry to these folks; it is truly a joy to participate in Fresh Expressions.
If you would be willing to volunteer, or even if you want more information, please contact Pastor Jeff Vermilya who is currently coordinating this ministry by emailing him below, or calling him directly at (770) 595-5193.
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Helping Hands Volunteers Needed
Can you lend a Helping Hand? Additional volunteers are needed immediately to work with current volunteers on the New Covenant home build. No specific skills are needed, and other experienced volunteers will be on-site to provide instruction. Volunteers paint, landscape, lay sod, cut lumber, install doors and flooring, etc. Volunteer workdays will be Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 7:45 AM to 12 PM.
If you are interested or know of others who might be, please contact Janine Rogers.
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Night to Shine Amazon & Walmart Registries
We're excited as we prepare for Night to Shine 2025, and we need your help to make it unforgettable for our honored guests! Here’s how you can get involved.
Purchase from Our Registries
We’ve created registries with needed items at Walmart and Amazon. Your purchases directly contribute to the event's success. Thank you for your generosity and support in creating a magical night for our guests. Your contributions make a world of difference!
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MOAMI 2025 Class
Thursdays, January 16 – March 27, 2025 from 1 PM – 4 PM
MOAMI (Moving on: Always Master Inspired) is a 11-week, faith based program open to all women looking for joy and purpose in the second half of their lives. MAOMI uses biblical principles to help each woman strengthen her relationship with God, develop supportive friendships with other women, learn strategies to successfully move through changes, discover her unique gifts, explore her purpose, and have fun with like-minded women.
The first class (January 16) is a Kickoff from 11 AM – 4 PM and the last class (March 27) is a Celebration from 11 AM – 4 PM (all other classes are from 1 – 4 PM). If you have any questions, please contact Barb Dougal.
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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 badge! Our pastors love to greet people by their name, so please make a point of wearing your name badge. If you don’t have one, you can purchase one online or visit the Computer Center after worship services. It is great when we can learn names this way and 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. To order a name badge online, please click the button below.
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Joanna Cavanaugh
Faye
Kelly Lawrimore
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Jim Marco
Barbara Power
Hazel Reale
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Our prayers, love, and sympathy are extended to...
Bob Hilton, Pam & Lisa, family and friends on the passing of his wife and their mother, Georgeanna Dunn.
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For upcoming Celebrations of Life at New Covenant United Methodist Church, please click the button below. | |
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Our Altar Flowers have been provided by…
Jerry & Barb Byers in celebration of their 55th wedding anniversary.
John & Doris Drewes in celebration of their 60th wedding anniversary.
Gene Murray in celebration of Margaret Walzcak’s going to heaven to be with Jesus.
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 using the button below.
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