Spiritual Reflection

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.“
 
Martin Luther King Jr.

Rooted Together, Growing in Hope

What a wonderful weekend in the life of New Covenant! Our 25th Anniversary Celebration brought us together through music, worship, service, memories, and fellowship. Above all, it gave us an opportunity to give thanks to God—for the people who planted this church, for those who have nurtured it, and for the ministry still ahead. We were especially blessed to have Gary Bullock (Founding Pastor) and his wife Cam worshipping with us. They both were overwhelmed by the warm reception and love they received. New Covenant, “a place to call home”, provided a “homecoming” for many. 

From Paul Fey’s extraordinary Friday evening concert to Saturday’s Day of Service and contemporary worship, through Sunday’s worship and afternoon celebration, we experienced the joy of belonging to a community of faith.

In his closing remarks, Pastor Harold shared the image of the redwood trees—their remarkable height sustained by roots that reach outward and intertwine with those around them. That image offers a meaningful way to understand our life together. We need one another. Through seasons of joy and sorrow, change and uncertainty, God strengthens us through the people who walk beside us.

For twenty-five years, those connections have been growing at New Covenant. They are found in prayers offered for someone facing illness, meals prepared during difficult days, friendships formed in rehearsals and small groups, and countless acts of kindness that never appear in a program.

Pastor Harold also drew upon Jesus’ parable of the sower. As we begin our next chapter, that parable invites us to ask: What kind of soil are we cultivating? Are we making room for God’s word to take root and change us? Are we nurturing a community where new people can find belonging, discover their gifts, and grow in faith?

Sunday morning’s message from Jeremiah, echoed in the choir’s anthem, “The Plans I Have for You,” brought a message of hope. We do not know every detail of what lies ahead. We can, however, meet the future with trust in God and a willingness to participate in the work God places before us.

A heartfelt thank-you to Joy Johnson, Chef Terry Sesler, and all of our committee chairs and volunteers for making this wonderful weekend happen. This group of faithful followers went above and beyond. This was truly a “labor of love” for our beloved church and Christ. Your planning, creativity, hospitality, and countless hours of work made this celebration a gift to our entire church family. Thank you also to our musicians, staff, and technical team, whose talents and dedication enriched our worship and celebration. From the first preparations to the final cleanup, your service was an expression of love.

To our charter members, thank you for the faith and commitment that helped establish this congregation—and to everyone who continues to nurture its life today, thank you for being part of its unfolding story.

May our celebration become renewed commitment: to strengthen our connections, welcome those seeking community, care for our neighbors, and sow seeds of faith, compassion, and hope. The commitment to sowing faithful seeds cultivates our vison to be the “Hands, feet, and voice” of Jesus Christ.

We give thanks for twenty-five years of roots—and look forward with faith to all that is yet to grow!

Terrific Tuesdays this Fall

Tuesday, October 27 from 4:45 PM – 7 PM

Join us for our Terrific Tuesdays this fall as Pastor Harold takes us a “Journey Through the James”. The Book of James is a practical New Testament letter that focuses on living out a genuine Christian faith through concrete actions rather than passive belief. Widely believed to be written by James, the brother of Jesus and leader of the early church in Jerusalem, this epistle serves as a direct, punchy guide to spiritual maturity and everyday wisdom.

This month we will be focusing on James’ warning of showing partiality towards others while others go unnoticed. Exemplifying humility over favoritism is truly taking a “higher road” in life, and his view of “faith without works is dead”. James speaks of these topics with grace and conviction.

The second part of this three-part series will help us explore the key components according to James to a deeper richer life. As James challenges us, “Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds, because the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” James 1:1-2. A great journey and adventure await!

Registration for dinner is $14.

Menu: Meatloaf, Cheesy Potatoes, vegetable, roll, and Dessert

If you have any questions or need help with registration, please contact Ashley Hill, First Impressions Manager.

Giving in the Spirit (begins the first weekend in November)

Would you like to give a special gift this Christmas? Your support of Giving in the Spirit gives you the opportunity to support various outreach ministries or organizations that impact so many in the community. During our season of giving, you can give a monetary donation through Giving in the Spirit and share the joy of Christmas in a very meaningful way.

To participate, pick up a booklet at the Welcome Center, at the entrance to the Christian Life Center during weekend worship, or in the Administration office during the week. You may also make a donation online using the button below.

Complete the form inside the booklet and put the form and your donation in the provided envelope by Friday, November 27 and deliver it to the Administration office, or place it in the offering basket during worship services by Sunday, November 29.

The total donations to all outreach ministries that were listed in the booklet last year was $82,917.

Night to Shine 2027: The Celebration Begins!

Friday, February 12, 2027 from 5 PM to 9 PM

New Covenant United Methodist Church is thrilled to announce that preparations are officially underway for Night to Shine 2027—our beloved, joy‑filled prom experience for individuals with special needs, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. Every year, our church family comes together to create an unforgettable evening of love, dignity, celebration, and God’s abundant grace. This year will be no exception! We cannot wait to welcome our Honored Guests back to a night overflowing with smiles, dancing, and the reminder that each one of them is wonderfully made in the image of God. 

Volunteer Registration & Information Meeting 

Night to Shine is only possible because of the incredible volunteers who give their time, energy, and hearts to serve our Honored Guests. 

Volunteer Registration will open online at 7 AM on October 29th through the church website.

All who are interested in volunteering; whether returning or brand‑new, are invited to attend our Volunteer General Information Meeting: Wednesday, October 28, 2026 at 5 PM in the CLC. This meeting is the perfect opportunity to learn about the various roles, ask questions, and discover how you can be part of this life‑changing night. 

If you or someone you know has questions about Night to Shine, please encourage them to reach out. We are here to help! 

Men's Ministry Dinner and a Movie (November 2026)

Thursday, November 5 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM

Come enjoy a Dinner and a Movie Date Night at New Covenant. We will be serving a wonderful dinner followed by a showing of the movie, “Shining Through”. This movie stars Michael Douglas, Melanie Griffith, and Liam Neesen in an inspiring tale of bravery and love persevering through incredible odds. This movie has something for everyone.

• Doors open at 4:30 PM
• Dinner will be served at 5 PM
• Showtime is 5:45 PM

Enjoy dinner followed by the movie and complimentary snacks.

Registration is required and ends on November 2 at 12 PM. Cost: $15 for dinner.

Menu: Mustard & Herb Crusted Pork Roast, Pan Gravy and Roasted Potatoes, Green Beans and Dinner Rolls with Dessert.

Tax-Free Giving from Your IRA

For those who are 70½ and older, the IRS code has a provision that allows a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly to the church from your IRA without having to pay income taxes that would otherwise be due on the distribution.

If you have already started taking distributions, the donation counts as part of your RMD. If you have not taken your 2026 Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) from your IRA yet, please consider doing so.



If you are interested, first discuss it with your financial advisor. If you need more information, please contact Linda Stubits, Finance Manager.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHS JANUARY 2026 – SEPTEMBER 2026

Stewardship is a key component of our Chrisitan faith. Your tithes and offerings to New Covenant UMC supports missions, funds quality worship, enhances discipleship and offers care to those in need. 

Our Finance team wants to thank you for your generosity and your commitment to New Covenant’s vision of being the “hands, feet and voice” of Christ. In order to keep you informed on the finances of New Covenant United Methodist Church the finance team is providing you with these financial numbers monthly.

We hope this information is helpful to you as we track our financial status throughout the year. Thank you again for all your support and faithfulness.

• Total Congregational Giving Through 09/30/2026 $2,477,294
• Total Expenditures Through 09/30/2026 $2,529,506
• Net $(52,212)

Legacy Giving

 It's not as puzzling to give to the Legacy Fund as it may appear.

If you would like to know more about Legacy Giving, please contact Linda Stubits, Finance Manager. Thank you for considering our Legacy Giving Ministry.

New Sunday Study

Beginning Sunday, October 18 at 10:15 AM

Spirited Singles & Friends begin a new study on Creed by Adam Hamilton. This is a six-week study on the Apostle’s Creed where Adam Hamilton considers important questions of life’s reality and truth. 

He explores not only what Christians believe but also why they believe it and why it matters.

This class meets in classroom 3, registration is NOT required, and all are invited to join!

If you have any questions, please contact Pat Hill, Care Coordinator - Discipleship.

Early and Late Risers Sunday School classes

Starting October 25 at 8 AM and 10:10AM

“Reading the Bible with Bonhoeffer: A Study in Discipleship and Courage”.

This timely 5-week study of one of the most influential and thoughtful Christian leaders asks us what it takes to demonstrate courageous Christianity in chaotic times. We will discuss who Jesus is to us and what if we lived with the full understanding that Jesus actually meant what He said. What is the Cost of Discipleship for us in our time?

Classes meet in the Chapel and all are welcome to attend as you are able.

The Chosen



Tuesday, October 27, at 3 PM

We are excited to continue showing and discussing episodes of “The Chosen”, a multi-season series depicting the life and ministry of Jesus Christ through the eyes of those who knew him.

"The Chosen" returns with Season 4. Break-out discussions are planned to run until 5PM. There are eight episodes in Season 4, and a schedule of classes will be handed out during the class. Participants may attend any class as they are able.

Season 4 of "The Chosen" follows the final year of Jesus’ ministry, highlighting growing opposition, pivotal miracles, and the transformation of His disciples. The season explores clashing kingdoms and rival rulers, as Jewish religious leaders ally with Roman authorities to oppose Jesus’ growing influence. The disciples struggle to keep pace with His mission, while Jesus bears the weight of His ministry largely alone.

Come see how Jesus establishes His church and how the disciples grow a deeper understanding of His mission.

Registration is NOT required.

If you have any questions, please contact Pat Hill, Care Coordinator - Discipleship.

Daylight Saving Time Ends

Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, November 1 at 2 AM. Remember to set your clocks back one hour to "fall back" and enjoy the extra hour of sleep. We look forward to seeing you in worship this weekend!

Honoring Our Veterans: A Special Men’s Prayer Breakfast

Tuesday, November 10th at 7:30 AM

The Men’s Prayer Breakfast is holding a special event in observance of Veteran’s Day to honor our veterans. All members of the church are invited to attend this celebration. All veterans and their spouses will be provided breakfast for free. There will be a special presentation on the Honor Flight program, including the Villages Honor Flight President and a founding member of the Honor Flight program here.

Please join us as we honor those who have served, celebrate their sacrifices, and learn more about this remarkable program dedicated to recognizing our nation's heroes.

Veterans Day: A Morning of Honor & Gratitude

On Wednesday, November 11, veterans are invited to participate in the Veterans Day Parade beginning at 8 AM at The Villages Charter School’s Buffalo Ridge Primary Center. Please bring a driver’s license for school admission. Veterans are encouraged to wear their military uniform, if able, and bring a sign displaying their branch and years of service. Refreshments will be served, and the TVCS Children’s Choir will perform for the veterans.

Following the parade, everyone is invited to New Covenant’s Serenity Garden at 10 AM for a Gathering of Honor & Gratitude featuring Horns A Plenty, the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem, military recognition, and words and prayer with Pastor Harold Hendren.

There is plenty of time to attend both events. If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Donna Hendren.

November Women’s Gathering

Thursday, November 19 from 10 to 11:30 AM followed by lunch.

This month Pastor Donna Hendren will be sharing with you the highlights of her Fresh Expressions Ministry.

"The seeds for Fresh Expressions were planted in my heart long before Fresh Expressions became a ministry in the United Methodist church.

In 1983 I was working at a dentist office. Once a month a small bus from the local senior living facility would drive into the parking lot of the dentist office where I worked. Shortly after the bus pulled in, Bernice Wilcox and her friends would wheel themselves in for their dental work. Bernice and her friends, who were all about 100 years old, found a place in my heart. After building a friendship with them, I found myself going to the senior living facility to spend time with them. In reality we were having a church service right in their room. 

Forty-three years later I find myself doing the very same thing I did as a young woman. I thought I was going in to visit and help them but what I experienced I was the one being spiritually nurtured. I found when I left the facility I always felt better.  Bernice and her friends just wanted to be cared for, loved and nurtured. I look forward to sharing this ministry with you so please join us."

Additionally, Pearl Seavitte will be speaking to us on kindness.

"Kindness is the art of making someone’s day a little brighter without needing a special occasion. The beautiful thing about kindness is that it’s contagious. One kind word or action can lead to another; one thoughtful deed can lead to many. Pearl will use humor as she discusses how a warm smile, a thoughtful word, and a listening ear can let someone know they matter just by expressing and demonstrating kindness".

This month’s mission will benefit Pastor Donna’s Fresh Expressions Ministry.

Guest Speakers: Pastor Donna Hendren & Pearl Seavitte.

Registration is required and ends on November 12 at 12 PM.

Menu: Pork Tenderloin with gravy, mashed potatoes, carrots, roll, and dessert.

If you have any questions, please contact Pat Hill, Care Coordinator - Discipleship.

Celebration Brass Band Fall Concert

Sunday, November 22 at 6:00 PM

Join the Celebration Brass Band for an evening of stirring marches, Broadway favorites, featured soloists, and the rich sound of brass and percussion. Led by Conductor Lewis Buckley and Assistant Conductor Christopher Priest, this British-style brass band brings warmth, brilliance, and a wide range of musical expression to the concert stage. Rooted in the British brass band tradition, the ensemble’s distinctive instrumentation offers a sound audiences have come to love.

The program will showcase the variety of the brass band repertoire, with selections ranging from The Phantom of the Opera and music by George Gershwin to John Williams’ Olympic Fanfare and the familiar favorite Ticket to Ride. Stirring marches and Lewis Buckley’s transcription of the beautiful choral work Salvation Is Created will further highlight the ensemble’s versatility.



Two featured soloists will add to the evening’s musical variety. CBB President and Principal Cornet Greg Weber will perform A Trumpeter’s Lullaby. Principal E-flat Tuba Kevin Blackstock, Director of Bands at The Villages Charter School, will be featured in Celestial Morn, showcasing the lyrical and expressive possibilities of the tuba.



Whether you are a longtime supporter or discovering the Celebration Brass Band for the first time, this concert offers something for everyone. Come enjoy an evening of musical favorites and fresh discoveries as we welcome the band for its 2026 Fall Concert.

Tickets are $20 each for general admission purchase online or at the door.

Make New Covenant Your Church Home

Wednesday, December 2 at 1 PM

Have you been attending New Covenant regularly and wondering about taking the next step toward membership? We invite you to our next new member class to learn more, ask question, and explore what it means to become a member of our church family.

Membership is a commitment to Christ through a local church, a way to grow in faith, serve together, and care for one another in love. Whether you call this area home year round, or join us seasonally, we have membership options to help you stay connected.

This will be our final new member class of 2026 and your last opportunity to join during New Covenant’s 25^th anniversary year. Come discover what taking this next step could mean for you. We would love to welcome you!

If you have any questions or need help with registration, please contact Ashley Hill, First Impressions Manager.

Christmas at New Covenant: FREE Tickets Available This Week!

December 12 & 13 at 5 PM

Make room for an evening of Christmas wonder and invite someone to share it with you!

Christmas at New Covenant brings together the Chancel Choir, Praise Ringers and Orchestra for Night of Hope, Night of Grace, a Christmas celebration filled with beloved carols, beautiful music and the timeless story of Christ’s birth.

FREE tickets are available, with options to purchase premium seating and opportunities to make a donation in support of our music ministry.

Created by Joel Raney, with orchestration by Ed Hogan, this service of Lessons and Carols follows the Christmas story from the promise of a Savior to the joy of his birth. Familiar favorites including Silent Night, O Come, All Ye Faithful, and Ding Dong! Merrily on High; join Scripture and new musical settings in an evening full of hope and grace.

Sean Pollock conducts, with Amy Cornwall-Robinson directing the Praise Ringers, and Angie Rose, Mark Steven Schmidt, and other guest vocal soloists sharing in the celebration.

Whether this concert is part of your Christmas tradition or your first visit to New Covenant, there is a place for you. Bring a friend, gather your family, and celebrate the season with us.

Ticket reservations open this week, so reserve your FREE tickets or explore premium seating and donation options through Tix.

MOAMI 2027 Class

Thursdays, January 14-March 18, 2027

MOAMI (Moving On: Always Master Inspired) is a 9-week, faith-based program open to all women looking for joy and purpose in the second half of their lives.

MOAMI 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 is a Kickoff from 11 AM to 4 PM, and the last class is a celebration from 11 AM to 4 PM. All other classes are from 1 to 4 PM.

Registration is $45 and opens November 1.

If you have any questions, please contact Barb Dougal.

Holy Land Tours and Journeys of Paul Tour 2027

Pastor Harold will lead the trip to the Holy Land for next spring March 8 – 17, 2027.

In addition, Pastor Harold will be leading a cruise tour that follows in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul. The cruise, October 6 – 17, 2027, will take us to towns where Paul had established churches such as Philippi, Thessaloniki, Corinth, Athens, and Ephesus. There also will be stops in Rhodes, Mykonos, and Santorini, Greece.

If you are interested in knowing more about these tours, you can pick up a brochure at the Welcome Center in the East Narthex, download the information from the New Covenant website, or use the links below.

25th Anniversary Reflection

As we continue to celebrate New Covenant’s 25th anniversary, we’re taking a look back at the many memories, moments, and blessings that have shaped our church family over the years.

A Ministry of Welcome

We have very fond memories of first coming to New Covenant in the fall of 2000. At that time, the congregation was worshiping at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Our neighbors, Mary and Bob Kirkland, brought us for the first time and introduced us to Rev. Gary and Cam Bullock. Several people in our neighborhood had worked with Gary to help plant the church, meeting in homes before the congregation moved to St. Vincent de Paul. We have now been part of New Covenant for 26 years.

Herman and I became involved in hospitality almost immediately. Because the congregation was still small and had only one worship service, the social hour provided a wonderful opportunity for people to meet one another and begin forming relationships. We served doughnuts and coffee in those early days. As the church grew and moved first to La Hacienda Recreation Center and then to the Savannah Center, the doughnuts eventually gave way to store-bought cookies—but the purpose remained the same: creating a welcoming place where people could connect. We especially remember serving alongside Dianne and Bob Freeman during those years.

Our associate pastor, Rev. Lois Munn, organized a women’s group that met over sack lunches. Together, the women discussed ways to become more involved in the church and identified projects through which they could serve. The group also held several women’s retreats at the Methodist retreat center, providing opportunities for fellowship and spiritual growth.

When the congregation moved to La Hacienda, we wanted the temporary worship space to feel more like a church. Members created eight or ten banners that were displayed during worship. The banners were retired after we moved into our permanent church home, but they remain part of our memories of a congregation willing to use whatever it had to create a meaningful and welcoming place for worship.

Herman served on the first building committee, and we remember the discussions about whether the new church needed a kitchen. Some members—having retired from years of cooking—were not eager to work in another kitchen. Thankfully, the kitchen was included. It has since supported countless meals, receptions, gatherings, and ministries. It is difficult to imagine New Covenant without it today.

We sometimes miss those early years when we knew every face in the congregation. Yet the hope from the beginning was that New Covenant would grow and welcome more people into its life and ministry—and that has certainly happened.

These memories remind us that hospitality is about much more than coffee, doughnuts, cookies, banners, or even a kitchen. It is the ministry of creating a place where people are welcomed, relationships are formed, faith is nurtured, and everyone can find A Place to Call Home.

Memory shared by Pamela and Herman Healy, Charter members.

Weekly Prayer Concerns

Prayer Quilts

Alan is seeking prayers of healing from infection and other health issues.

Sandy needs prayers of healing for her newly diagnosed 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...

Family and friends of Lynda J. Bryant on her passing.

Sharon Pederson, family and friends on the passing of her brother Earl Weinstock III.

Christian Life Center Chancel Flowers

Chancel flowers given in honor of Dick and Karen Grimm’s 60^th Wedding Anniversary.

To place an order for Chancel flowers in the Christian Life Center for Sunday worship services, please use the button below. For any questions about Christian Life Center Chancel Flowers, please contact Sharon Weimert, Care Coordinator.



Flower orders for the Christian Life Center must be received by noon on Monday for flowers to be delivered that weekend.

Rev. Harold Hendren, Senior Pastor

Rev. Ellen Pollock, Associate Pastor