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

"O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie,

above thy deep and dreamless sleep, the silent stars go by.

Yet in the dark streets shineth the everlasting light.

The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight." 

Phillip Brooks

Prayers & Squares Quilt Ministry

Each week, handcrafted quilts are placed along the communion rails for anyone to pause, pray, and tie a knot—each knot representing a prayer for someone in need.

Since this ministry began in 2008, more than 2,090 quilts have been given to recipients. So far in 2025, we’ve already shared 141 quilts filled with prayer and comfort.

This week, we invite you to hear from Karen Weber, who experienced the hope and encouragement these quilts bring.

If you haven’t prayed over a quilt before or after worship, try it this week. Your prayer may be exactly what someone is waiting for.

Residing Hope — Florida Children's Home

Saturday, November 29 and Sunday, November 30

Residing Hope has been committed to serving children and their families for over a century. Their mission began in 1908 as the Florida Methodist Orphanage, and although the ministry has expanded over the years, they still serve abused, abandoned, and neglected children.

The word hope in their name commonly means a wish or desire, but to this home for children, it also means the confident expectation of what God has promised and the strength of his faithfulness. Each fifth Sunday is dedicated to continued support of this ministry.

Residing Hope has helped to transform the lives of over 9,000 young people through its various programs. Since opening in 1908, Residing Hope has grown to serve children and families in multiple ways, such as:

• Therapeutic Residential Care – care is provided on the campus in Enterprise and at the Madison Youth Ranch

• Foster Care – children are supported in licensed homes in Volusia, Flagler, Broward and Palm Beach counties

• Independent Living – a transitional program for young adults ages 18 to 26

• Outpatient Counseling – serves children in counseling sessions across the state of Florida with in office visits and virtually

• Montessori School – provides a quality education to underserved children at their Enterprise campus

In order to continue to restore hope and provide a solid foundation for these children, our support is needed. Please donate to Residing Hope by making a check out to New Covenant with “Residing Hope” on the memo line. For more information on Residing Hope, please visit their website.

The Village Ringers present

“Christmas and Candlelight”

Friday, December 5 at 7 PM

This concert will feature the Village Ringers, an auditioned group of 14 handbell ringers under the direction of Bonnie Fisher. You’ll be delighted at the rich, full, and varied sounds a handbell can make! The Village Ringers strive to make their performances both beautiful and memorable. This concert is no exception, complete with candlelit ambiance and lovely visuals.

The evening will begin with a beautiful, candlelight processional and include arrangements of the well-known Christmas song "Angels from the Realms of Glory," and carols from the Renaissance era including "Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming" and "Ding Dong! Merrily On High." You’ll also hear favorites such as “We Need a Little Christmas” and a unique and lovely rendition of "Ave Maria." The evening will end with a glorious arrangement of "O Come, All Ye Faithful."

To make this concert extra special, the ringers will be accompanied by Gary Powell on the organ. Gary serves as the director of the Cabaret Lobby Series at the Sharon Morse Theatre as well as organist at New Covenant United Methodist Church. In addition, you will enjoy a couple of selections from Village Ringers TOO, a group of ringers-in-training under the direction of Cathy Bullock. Perhaps you’ll be inspired to try bellringing yourself.

Wooten Hill Christmas

Sunday, December 7 at 7 PM

This December, New Covenant UMC is delighted to welcome Wooten Hill, the celebrated duo of Grammy-nominated Dove Award winner Kim Hill and acclaimed songwriter and composer Paulette Wooten. Known for their authenticity, warmth, and artistry, Kim and Paulette have created a unique musical partnership that blends story, song, and soul-stirring harmony.

Their newest project, "Joy, Come More Than Once a Year," is a heartfelt Christmas collection that weaves together timeless carols and original songs of hope, healing, and connection. More than a concert, a Wooten Hill evening invites audiences into a shared journey of music and storytelling - uplifting spirits and creating space for both joy and reflection.

Kim and Paulette bring with them years of experience touring nationally, performing everywhere from Max Lucado’s church in San Antonio to Jen Hatmaker’s beloved events, and even the upcoming Wild Goose Festival. Their concerts resonate because they speak honestly about life - celebrating the beauty of holiday traditions while acknowledging that the season can be complicated. With humor, grace, and honesty, they share stories of childhood Christmas memories, moments of loss, and the reminder that joy can be found even when the holidays don’t look "perfect."

Both women bring personal depth to their music, having walked through seasons of grief after losing parents - ironically on the same date, twelve years apart. Yet, they also balance these tender stories with laughter and songs that leave audiences inspired and renewed. Their concerts are not performances alone; they are gatherings of hope.

For the past five years, Wooten Hill has served as Artists-in-Residence at St. Thomas Episcopal in Burnsville, NC, furthering their calling to connect faith, art, and community.

New York Times best-selling author Jen Hatmaker puts it best. "If you’ve never experienced the magic of a Wooten Hill concert, let me tell you — you are missing out on something extraordinary. Kim and Paulette are not just incredibly talented musicians; they are absolute queens of the stage and the heart. Their music is breathtaking, their harmonies are heavenly, and their presence is pure joy… You’ll leave their concert feeling inspired, uplifted, and full of holiday cheer."

Join us for this unforgettable evening of story and song as we welcome Wooten Hill to New Covenant. Net proceeds will benefit Night to Shine, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, hosted by New Covenant United Methodist Church.

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 8.

Thank you,

Bob Wotring, Chair, Staff-Parish Relations Team

Give Thanks

Give thanks with a grateful heart

Give thanks to the Holy One 

Give thanks because He's given

Jesus Christ His Son



And now let the weak say I am strong

Let the poor say I am rich

Because of what the Lord has done for us.

Give Thanks

Legacy Giving

An IRA is a great asset to use for both current and future gifts.

Holiday Hours for New Covenant

The Administration Office will be closed at 1 PM on Wednesday, November 26. We will remain closed Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28. The office will reopen on Monday, December 1 at 9 AM.

Bargains & Blessings will also be closed at 1 PM on Wednesday, November 26 and remain closed Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28. The store will reopen on Saturday, November 29 at 10 AM.

All worship services will be at the regularly scheduled times. We wish you a very happy Thanksgiving!

Giving in the Spirit

Giving in the Spirit provides a very meaningful way to bless others and share the joy of Christmas. Donations are due by Friday, November 28 to the Administration office, or place it in the offering basket during worship services by Sunday, November 30.

You may also make a donation online by Sunday, November 30 using the button below.

Safety Training Class – Join Us!

Wednesday, December 3 at 1 PM and Wednesday, December 10 at 9 AM

At New Covenant, creating a warm and welcoming environment is one of our greatest priorities and an essential part of that is keeping our church family safe. We are offering upcoming Safety Training Classes for our ushers and greeters, and we would like to invite anyone in the congregation who has an interest in learning how to better recognize, respond to, and prevent safety concerns on our campus. You have two opportunities to choose from: morning or afternoon.

These trainings will provide practical tools for being more aware of your surroundings, understanding how to identify potential risks, and knowing what steps to take if a situation arises. Whether you serve in a ministry area, greet or usher on weekends, or simply want to feel more confident while attending church, these classes are a valuable resource.

Your presence not only equips you but also strengthens the safety and hospitality of our entire community. If you have a heart for helping others or a desire to be more prepared, we encourage you to join us.

Registration is required. Please bring your NCUMC ID card to check in at the self-check-in kiosks. If you do not have an ID card, please contact the administration office at (352) 750-4529. If you need help registering, please contact Ashley Hill.

Hope and Healing Service

Sunday, December 7 at 3 PM in the Chapel

The Hope and Healing Service is a meditative time to reflect on the emotions of the holidays as well as the loss of a loved one. We are grateful to offer this time together as a time of healing and hope to soothe your soul.



For any questions, please contact Sharon Weimert, Care Coordinator.

“The Chosen: Holy Night”

Monday, December 8 at 6:30 PM in the Fellowship Center

We invite you to experience Christmas with "The Chosen: Holy Night."

Experience Jesus’ birth through the eyes of a young mother and an unclean shepherd boy. Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night blends the Messengers and the Shepherd, both by Dallas Jenkins, into one special remastered and re-scored story. This special feature also includes an original performance from Andrea and Matteo Bocelli, six favorite songs from the past, and two beautiful new monologues. This promises to be a wonderful start to our Christmas journey.  

There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. If you have any questions or need help with registering, please contact Ashley Hill, First Impressions Manager.

Christmas Concert Series at New Covenant

The joy of the season fills the air at New Covenant! Join us throughout December for a beautiful lineup of concerts celebrating Christmas through music and community.

The Villages Flute Choir – “Holiday Fantasy: A Flute Choir Celebration”

Tuesday, December 2 at 7 PM

Christmas at New Covenant – “This Is Christmas”

Saturday & Sunday, December 13 & 14 at 5 PM

Featuring Mary McDonald, conductor, with the New Covenant Chancel Choir, Praise Ringers, and Orchestra, joined by members of the Community UMC Chancel Choir (Fruitland Park), Morrison UMC Chancel Choir (Leesburg), and Christian Voices United

“Slide Into Christmas” – A Bunch of Bones

Tuesday, December 16 at 12 PM

Choralettes – “Christmas Is Coming!”

Tuesday, December 16 at 6 PM

“A Quiet Christmas” with Angie Rose & Ryan Loeckel

Friday, December 19 at 3 PM & 7 PM

Tickets are available on the website. Those needing assistance can visit the Ticket Kiosk in the West Narthex after Saturday night worship service and between services on Sundays. 

Women’s Monthly Gathering (December 2025)

“An Intimate Moment with Mary and Joseph”

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

You are invited to set aside a special time when you gather with family or friends and share a few moments to reflect on the part of the manger that is so much a part of us all — the human side. In this time of quiet sharing, be reminded of the simplicity of God’s love for all of us and the power of His personal approach to each one of us. May you find this to be a very special time to reflect and recall His closeness to you this year!

If you wish to donate to the mission project this month, we ask that you make a donation to "The Little Ones’ Fund" — a love offering for the persons in the tiny village of Concession, Africa, whose hands sweep the mud huts that they call home, whose bare feet walk to a well for water — all happenings in a simple, meager, hard day in which they call life.

Menu: Turkey Breast with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Glazed Carrots, Cranberry Sauce, and Dessert. (Menu subject to change based on food availability.)

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

Christmas Eve Worship Services

Wednesday, December 24 at 4:30 PM and 7 PM

Celebrate the wonder of Christ’s birth with traditional Gospel readings that bring the nativity story to life. Rev. Harold Hendren will deliver a heartfelt Christmas Eve message, sharing the hope and light of the Savior’s arrival and its significance for us today.

Nursery will be available for children ages 6 years and under during worship services.

Holy Communion from 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM in the Chapel

If you wish to spend time in solitude, prayer, and meditation, Communion will be available in the Chapel. You are welcome to drop in during this hour and be guided by a special Christmas Eve meditation.

MOAMI Class of 2026

Thursdays, January 15 – March 26, 2026



MOAMI (Moving On: Always Master Inspired) is a powerful hands-on-class that uses Biblical principles to help women strengthen their relationship with God, develop supportive friendships with other women, learn strategies to successfully move through changes, discover their unique gifts, explore their purpose, and have fun with like-minded women.

The first class (January 15) is a Kickoff from 11 AM – 4 PM, and the last class (March 26) is a Celebration from 11 AM – 4 PM. All other classes are from 1 PM – 4 PM.

Registration is required ($45). If you have any questions or need assistance registering, please contact Pat Hill, Care Coordinator - Discipleship. If registration fills, you will be added to a waiting list.

Prayer Room

New Covenant is blessed to have a beautiful Prayer Room that is open for your use anytime the church building is open. Located right off the West Narthex, next to the entrance to the Fellowship Center. Our prayer room offers a quiet and peaceful space to offer prayers, meditate, read, and reflect.

Please consider this a sacred space for these activities. Resources such as prayer cards, devotional books, and Bibles are available for your use. 

Weekly Prayer Concerns

The Prayer Quilts on the Altar are for:

Gail, who suffers with Parkinson's and recently had surgery.

John, who has pancreatic cancer.

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...

Jim Bain, Jeff (son) & Natasha, family, and friends on the passing of Jim's 13-year-old granddaughter, Sonya Bain.

Bill & Lynn Shawn, family, and friends on the passing of his twin brother, James Emmett Shawn and his sister-in-law, Judy Shawn.

Marcia Springsteen, family, and friends on the passing of her husband, Robert “Bob” Springsteen.

Our Altar Flowers have been Provided by…

Bruce, Martha, Kelly Ecker and Amanda, Jason, Jackson Rosolen in memory of their son/brother/uncle Lucas Ecker on the anniversary of his passing.

James & Pat Santos in celebration of their 35^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 online, please use the button below.