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

“Grace means there is nothing we can do to make God love us more... And grace means there is nothing we can do to make God love us less... Grace means that God already loves us as much as an infinite God can possibly love.”

Philip Yancey

Introducing the “Do Unto Others” Kindness Campaign

New Covenant is excited to announce our “Do Unto Others” Kindness Campaign for this fall. “Do Unto Others” is a grassroots movement launched by Resurrection, a United Methodist Church in the Kansas City area, to encourage people to be intentional about treating one another with kindness, even those with whom we disagree. A vote for kindness is a step toward overcoming the polarization in our country through civility and respect.

Over the period of time leading up to Election Day, we will be rolling out different elements of this campaign, including a sermon series, special events, merchandise, and more. We hope that you will join us in the “Do Unto Others” Kindness Campaign as we continue to live into the vision of being a thriving body of Christ by being His hands, feet, and voice in the world.

As part of the Kindness Campaign, “Do Unto Others” shirts, customized with the logo of New Covenant on the back, are on the way! Once they arrive, we hope that you will consider purchasing one so that you can help spread kindness by wearing it when you’re out and about. Shirts will be available in the Narthex before worship services while supplies last. Net proceeds from the shirts will support the ongoing ministries of New Covenant.

Fight Falls with Better Balance 

Wednesday, September 18 at 1 PM in the Chapel

Nearly 3 million older adults visit the ER each year as the result of a fall. As you age, it gets harder to recover from falls, so it's important to focus on fall prevention by improving your balance. Safely climbing stairs, stepping into the bathtub, and even getting out of bed in the morning all depend on our ability to balance. Fortunately, balance is a skill that we can get back! Join Aviv Clinics' physiologist, Tim Bream, for tips on how you can rebuild balance to prevent falls at any age.  This event is free.

Fliers are available at the Welcome Center with descriptions and dates for upcoming speakers in September, October, and November.

Annual Church Conference

Wednesday, September 25 from 5 PM to 6 PM

New Covenant will be hosting our annual Church Conferences in the Christian Life Center. At the Church Conference, church members have the opportunity to vote on the 2025 leadership team, clergy compensation, and removal of church members after a two-year absence.

All are welcome to attend.

New Covenant ID Cards

Streamlined Check-In Process

Self-Check-In Kiosks

As many of you may have noticed, we have added four stations that are actually self-check-in kiosks. These kiosks have been put in place in both the East and the West Narthexes.

At the last LEAD meeting, the overwhelming response was people wanted to find another solution to the handheld scanners. People felt these were impersonal and the greeters weren’t able to do the job they volunteered to do. The self-check-in kiosks do not replace the greeters with the handheld scanners, they give another opportunity for congregants to check in. 

The self-check-in kiosks will capture the same information as the handheld scanners, and will eventually give people the option to also check in for Sunday Education Classes. 

Thank you to everyone who have tried them out and given your feedback. It’s an exciting time at New Covenant as we delve into new opportunities to try new things. 

If you have not given the self-check-in a try yet, please do! Here are the instructions on how to check in:

1. Place barcode of your New Covenant ID Card near scanner at the bottom of the screen.
2. Family should come up on the screen. Touch the box with the family members you are checking in.
3. Touch the check in arrow at the bottom right of the screen.
4. If you do not have your check-in card with you, you also can check in using the last 4 digits of your phone number.

If you have any questions, please contact Ashley Hill.

Give your First and Best

There’s something spiritually significant about giving God your first and best, rather than your leftovers. And it means something to Him too. 

In Malachi 1:6-12, some of the priests decided to make sacrificing more convenient and cost-effective. They began encouraging people to give their blind and lame animals to sacrifice, instead of the first and best.

In response, God said, “Where is My honor?... Where is My reverence?” (Malachi 1:6, NKJV). He viewed this as dishonoring to Him – and it was.



When God gave us His first and only Son as a sacrifice for our sins, He gave His first and best. He deserves nothing less than the same from us.

Legacy Giving

Giving through your will or trust allows you to keep your assets while you need them.

Men's Prayer Breakfast on Hiatus

After much prayerful consideration we have decided to suspend the men’s prayer breakfast during the renovation project in the Fellowship Center. This is due to two key factors: the lack of adequate volunteers to create the breakfast on a weekly basis and the difficulty in logistics. 

Men’s Ministry will collect the names of breakfast attendees who attended the prayer breakfast and are members of the New Covenant. We will attempt to create opportunities for all these men to join in weekly small groups. If men are interested in joining in small groups at any time during the week, please contact Randy Cooke. 

We thank all the men who have made the men’s prayer breakfast ministry a success. We will plan to recreate a prayer breakfast or devotional time once the construction is complete — if we can secure enough volunteers to make that possible. We look forward to continuing a strong Men’s Ministry at New Covenant with the help of all the men of the church.

Results of the Called Church Conference

New Covenant held a special Called Church Conference this week to approve whether to purchase an additional building in Wildwood to expand our Bargains & Blessings Ministry. We had over 100 people in attendance and the motion was approved unanimously to purchase this new building. We expect to have a grand opening on Tuesday, November 12.

With the addition of this new building, we will need more volunteers to assist customers. We will need morning and afternoon volunteers for the new building, including cashiers and floor apparel volunteers. You may pick up a volunteer application at the store or at the church. This important ministry relies on our amazing volunteers. For more information about volunteering, please contact Barb Holevinsky.

Night to Shine Returns in 2025

New Covenant United Methodist Church is thrilled to announce that we will once again host the unforgettable Night to Shine event on February 7, 2025, from 5–9 PM. This annual event, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, celebrates people with special needs and provides them with an unforgettable prom night experience centered on God’s love. We had so much fun last year, and we are beyond excited to bring this incredible event back to our community! The joy and smiles that filled our church last year were nothing short of amazing, and we can’t wait to see what this year has in store.

To ensure everything runs smoothly, we’re holding a volunteer meeting on September 17 from 5:30 to 6:30 PM. During this meeting, we will go through the various volunteer roles, discuss logistics, and answer any questions. If you can’t attend in person, don’t worry—this meeting will be live-streamed so everyone can participate.

Volunteer and guest registrations will open on September 23 at 8 AM, so mark your calendars! Whether you’re interested in being a buddy for one of our honored guests, helping with decorations, or serving in another capacity, we would love to have you join us.

If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button to learn more about the different opportunities and sign up for our volunteer newsletter to stay updated on all things Night to Shine.

September Women's Gathering

Thursday, September 19 from 10 AM – 11:30 AM (with lunch to follow)

The season of fall approaching can remind us of the many changes in our lives. God is always with us in changing seasons, changing times as we age, in both challenging and good times—always! You’re invited to join us for the September Women's Gathering titled, "Changes" as we look at people in the Bible whose lives were sustained by God through changes, just as ours are today. A lunch will follow the program.

Lunch Menu: Tuscany Chicken Wrap, Caprese Pasta Salad and Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

Registration is required ($10). Please register by Monday, September 16 at 12 PM. If you need assistance registering, please contact Pat Hill.

Revealed Small Group

Thursdays, September 19 – October 24, from 1–2:15 PM

The Revealed Small Group will begin Max Lucado’s “Life Lessons from Philippians.” In the book of Philippians, Paul encapsulates why we should experience the joy of being a child of God even when the events of our lives become tough and painful. If you are interested in learning to be more joyful, please join us. Let the lessons of Paul’s letter to the Philippians deepen your joy in Christ. We hope you decide to join us on our journey of a joyful life.

For more information, please contact Sherry and Pastor Gary Eldred.

Habitat Groundbreaking

Monday, September 23 at 9 AM

Please join us for a ribbon cutting ceremony for our second home build. This home will also be built through our partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Lake Sumter, Florida, and is located immediately next door to the other two Habitat homes on County Road 229. Our first home was completed earlier this year for Ashley Hunter and her family. 

If you are interested in volunteering to help build the second home, please contact Janine Rogers.

Human Trafficking Up Front and Personal

Tuesday, September 24 from 4 PM – 6 PM in the Chapel

One guest speaker for this event will be Lt. Jenn Hutchins of the Wildwood Police Department, who will provide important information about human trafficking in our local neighborhoods, including The Villages.

Our other guests will be Rainy and Babs, members of Bikers Against Human Trafficking, who will share their own personal stories about being survivors of human trafficking and their battle against the ongoing crisis.  After the presentation, light refreshments will be served. The cost is $5, payable at the door.

Registration is required. All are welcome. For more information, please contact Pat Hill.

Operation Christmas Child

Since 1993, children from all around the world have been blessed during this time of year with shoeboxes full of school supplies, toiletry items, clothing and toys through Operation Christmas Child. During the month of September, New Covenant is collecting shoeboxes as part of our 2024 Christmas Giving. We invite you to join in this effort to complete 1,000 shoeboxes.  

You can help us with this goal one of two ways:

• Pick up one or more shoeboxes at the church Narthex (an instructional brochure will be included) and return them filled with items. 

• If you prefer not to shop, please send a check for $25 and a box will be filled for you. Please make your check out to "NCUMC" with Operation Christmas Child on the memo line. 

Please return your filled shoebox(es) with $10 to help with shipping by Monday, September 30 so that they can be processed for National Collection Week.

The Spirit of Justice: True Stories of Faith, Race and Resistance

This group will meet Tuesdays on Zoom from 6:30-8 PM

(October 1, 15, 29, November 12, 26, December 10)

"The spirit of justice is the inner force that moves us to demand dignity and respect for ourselves and others. It is the cry of our souls for the world to be a fair and kind place. It is the power that inspires people to speak up when others remain silent. To move when others stand still. To put themselves on the line when others choose to remain comfortable." Jemar Tisby

The Spirit of Justice reveals the stories of the people who fought against racism and agitated for justice—and what we can learn from their example, their suffering, their methods, and their hope.

In this book, award-winning author Jemar Tisby will open your eyes to the "pattern of endurance" in the centuries-long struggle for Black freedom in America. Through a historical survey of the nation from its founding to the present day, this book gives real-world examples of people who opposed racism, how they did it, what it cost, and what they gained for themselves and others.

Participants must purchase their own book. If you have any questions, please contact Pat Hill.

Women's Fall Retreat (October 2024)

Thursday, October 3 from 9 AM – 2 PM (doors open at 8 AM)

Ladies, please join us as we welcome back Carole Wolaver, the Pottery Lady, for a day filled with creativity, entertainment, and faith. Carole will take us on a journey through stories and testimony as she creates a beautiful piece of pottery before our very eyes. The mission of the Pottery Lady is to bring to life in a very visual way the plan that “The Master Potter” has for each one of us.

Carole desires to know God, make Him known through his word and through the vivid picture of being clay in His loving and gentle hands.   As a Master Potter, Carole’s messages are dramatically presented from the potter’s wheel. Her unique style of storytelling mixed with her skill at the potter’s wheel bring scripture to life in a very visual way. Born Jewish, Carole received Jesus as her Savior in 1977. By using a unique Raku style and Hebrew designs, her pottery looks as if it were dug up from an ancient Israeli Tel. Pottery shopping available throughout the day!

Registration is required. The cost is $20 and includes lunch. If you have any questions, please contact Pat Hill.

Good Grief

Thursdays, October 3 – November 7, from 1–3 PM

Good Grief is a 6-week, Christ centered grief support group offered in the spring and fall with discussions drawn from topics presented in a workbook. As we fellowship together, we offer support and comfort through your journey of grief. Two caring and supportive facilitators, who have walked the same path, will guide you along your journey. 

There is no cost for the class but, if you wish to purchase a workbook, it is $20. Space is limited to ten people to allow for time for sharing.

Registration ($20) is required. For more information, please contact Sharon Weimert.

Villages Concert Band presents

“Salute to American Composers”

Thursday, October 3 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

The Villages Concert Band presents an unforgettable night of music highlighting the rich, diverse heritage of all the greatest American composers.  You’ll hear works by Aaron Copland, Irving Berlin, John Philip Sousa, John Williams, Leroy Anderson…and more!  Whether you’re a longtime fan of these musical legends or discovering their genius for the first time — this concert promises to be a delightful and inspiring experience for all.

New Member Class (October 2024)

Wednesday, October 9 at 1 PM

Membership is about commitment to Christ through a local church. Whether you are here full-time, or seasonally, we have a membership type that will fit you and your needs. Church membership is your opportunity to hold each other in responsibility and love. We hope you will consider being a member and become more engaged with your church community.

An Online New Member Class is available for anyone who is unable to attend in person.

Registration is required. If you’re interested in the Online New Member Class or need help with registration, please contact Ashley Hill, First Impressions Manager.

Madison Youth Ranch 10^th Anniversary Celebration

Saturday, October 12 at 1647 NE Captain Buie Rd, Pinetta, FL

Residing Hope (formerly the Florida United Methodist Children's Home) manages the Madison Youth Ranch located in Madison County. The youth ranch will celebrate its tenth anniversary with a catered lunch, special program, and tours of the ranch. If you would like to attend, please RSVP below. In addition to therapeutic residential care, this facility also provides Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.  

The children who are in the care of Residing Hope and the other programs managed by them are:

• Victims of neglect or physical, sexual or emotional abuse
• Victims of a family crisis, dysfunction or turmoil
• Abandoned or orphaned
• Parents/guardians could not care for them

If you are interested in supporting their various programs, please make a check out to 'NCUMC', with Residing Hope on the memo line. For more information, please contact Rev. Brian Carr, Director of Church Relations, at (386) 668-4774.

New Covenant Name Badges

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.

Hal Baumann

Bryan

Tom Cosler

Bruce & Martha Ecker's son

Theresa Gates

Robert and Larry Haney

Toni Trask Hawley

Bill Hewitt

Elaine Legault 

Joe & Lyn

Tonya Melchiore

Dave Morris

Pam

Lois Philbrick 

Ed Work

Prayer Quilts

Ray, who has medical issues and will have back surgery.

Susi, who is having back surgery in November.

Prayer 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...

Randy & Sarah Cooke, Larry Cooke (father), family and friends on the passing of Randy’s mother and Larry's wife, Joyce Cooke.

For upcoming Celebrations of Life at New Covenant United Methodist Church, please click the button below.

Our Altar Flowers have been provided by...

Kathy Wolf in loving memory of H. Sue West.

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.