Message in a Minute

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

Spiritual Reflection

“Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less. Humility is thinking more of others. Humble people are so focused on serving others, they don't think of themselves.” 

Rick Warren

Valentine's Dinner and Concert

Tuesday, February 13



Dinner begins at 5:30 PM in the Fellowship Center

(Doors open for dinner at 5:15)

Concert begins at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

Embark on a spectacular journey at the 'Carnival of Love,' where the exuberance of Mardi Gras and the sweetness of Valentine's Day converge in a grand celebration! Your evening begins in the Fellowship Center, hosted by the Men's Ministry, featuring a Valentine's Dinner / Mardi Gras Celebration like no other. Indulge in a delectable feast that tantalizes your taste buds with the authentic flavors of New Orleans. Immerse yourself in a night brimming with the pulsating beats of celebration and the sweet serenades of love. Embrace the fusion of lively festivities and deep romance in an atmosphere filled with unforgettable vibrancy and passion. Don't miss this dazzling journey of exuberant joy and enchanting amour!

This evening is more than just a meal; it's a fusion of vibrant rhythms, tender melodies, and a culinary adventure that embodies the spirit of love and festive energy. Prepare for a night that promises not only a feast for the senses but also a heartwarming experience of community and celebration. Don't miss out on this unforgettable blend of colorful joy, heartfelt romance, and exquisite cuisine! Net proceeds will support Youth Summer Missions.

Only 200 seats available for the dinner — purchase your tickets early.

Menu: New Orleans Creole Gumbo; Louisiana Pecan Chicken; Cajun Red Beans & Rice; Whole Kernel Corn Maque Choux; Cornbread Muffins; Festive King Cake.

• Dinner and concert for one ($31)
• Dinner and concert for two ($57)
• Concert only ($16)

Technical Volunteers Needed for Saturday Worship

Join our Saturday Night Services Volunteer Team! While our Sunday morning services are thriving with amazing volunteers, we're in need of enthusiastic individuals for our Saturday night services. No prior experience is required as we provide training on our simple camera systems, but if you have previous camera experience, that's a bonus!

As we embark on a new year, consider this your opportunity to make a significant connection. Your involvement in this ministry is a crucial part of New Covenant, helping people of all stages connect to their church home. Be a part of something special – join us on Saturday nights and make a difference! If you've been seeking a way to get involved, reach out to Mat Napp, our Digital Director, via email or find him in the back of the Christian Life Center after Worship.

Prayer Ministry

Prayer is an important part of life; it is our opportunity to communicate with God – individually or corporately. We have several ways you can add to your prayer life. One is the guided prayer cards that you can find in the East and West Narthex. There are also some available in the Prayer Room, located in the West Narthex.

Prayer request cards are another way you can share your concerns with the community of faith. We have prayer request cards all over the campus but you can also submit a prayer concern (click the button below).

Lastly, we want to remind you that the Praying Together groups meets every Wednesday at 2:45 PM in Classroom 14 to pray over the concerns of our congregation, our community, and our world. All are welcome to join in!

Thank You

Gathering beneath the starry sky of Rock the Universe, our youth group shared a weekend filled with deep connections and renewed spirits. Surrounded by uplifting music and the warmth of friendship, a sense of unity was felt that touched the hearts of our youth. Whether dancing to the beat or quietly reflecting, every moment was meaningful. Returning home, memories of laughter and worship lingered, reminding everyone of an incredible experience.

A heartfelt thanks to the congregation for making this experience possible. Your support and kindness have meant the world to our young members, guiding them on a journey of faith and love.

Pleasing God

Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, “Who is the Lord?” Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God. (Proverbs 30:7-9)

The writer knows his own weaknesses and recognizes that either too much money or too little money can cause him to dishonor God. The focus is on living to please God, not on riches.

Legacy Giving 

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

Seeds of Hope

Friday, February 2 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

Join us for a heartwarming evening at the "Seeds of Hope" concert, a special event to benefit the Wildwood Food Pantry. For a $15 donation at the door, you'll gain entry to an unforgettable night of gospel music. The concert features the extraordinary Wes Hampton of The Gaither Vocal Band, The New Covenant UMC Chancel Choir, and the Worship Band featuring Angie Rose, Jan Lavin, Mark Schmidt, Janice Swartz and Sean Pollock.

Wes Hampton, known for his soulful gospel renditions, will share his passion for music in this special performance. Wes has won numerous awards, including a Grammy in 2009 for the Gaither Vocal Band album, "Lovin' Life," and was also nominated with the GVB for a Grammy for three more albums. Wes, along with the Gaither Vocal Band, has gone on to win numerous Gospel Music Association Dove Awards over the years as well. Wes also won the 2006 Singing News Horizon Individual Fan Award for best new artist. In 2018, Wes and the GVB had the honor of singing at Billy Graham's memorial service in Charlotte, NC, where President Trump and Vice President Pence were in attendance.

Your presence and contributions at this event will not only provide you with an evening of uplifting music but also support the vital work of the Wildwood Food Pantry and the Wildwood Soup Kitchen. Come and be moved by the power of gospel music, and help sow the "Seeds of Hope" in our community. Remember, every ticket is a step towards making a difference. We look forward to welcoming you!

Bargains & Blessings Truck This Weekend

The Bargains & Blessings Truck will be on the church campus to accept donations this weekend (February 3 & 4) 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.

Discover New Covenant

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who participated this past weekend at Discover New Covenant. If you provided your contact information to a ministry, you can expect to receive a follow up within the next week. If you aren’t contacted, have additional questions about any of the ministries, or are looking for ways to get connected at New Covenant, please contact Ashley Hill, First Impressions Manager.

We are very blessed to work with such giving ministry leaders at New Covenant. Thank you for making Discover New Covenant 2024 such a success!

Women's Monthly Gathering (February 2024)

Thursday, February 15 from 10–11:30 AM

(with lunch to follow)

Several months ago, one of our Small Groups took a field trip to visit the Florida United Methodist Children’s Home in Enterprise, Florida. What began as a pleasurable day trip ended with a passion in this group's hearts to do more than a Fifth Sunday offering for the kids. For our February luncheon, we are celebrating and helping God's children. Please select something from the list below (NEW items only please) and bring it with you to the luncheon.

Menu:  Roasted chicken cutlets with roasted potatoes, apples and carrots, mini corn muffins, apple bread pudding with vanilla custard.

Registration is required ($10). If you need assistance registering, please contact Pat Hill.

In addition, through February 15, there will be a display in the East Narthex. The display consists of decorated boxes for you to donate needed (NEW items only please) items and gifts to the children. Please see the list of items below. Our filled church bus will make its delivery to the children’s home the end of February.

The Villages Symphonic Winds present

"Hollywood Milestones"

Sunday, February 4 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center

Join us for an extraordinary musical experience at The Villages Symphonic Winds' Winter Concert, "Hollywood Milestones." This captivating evening features a diverse selection of pieces, including the thrilling "Freefall," the delightful "Handel in the Strand," and the exotic "Tahiti Trot." Embrace the charm of "Autumn Ridge," and journey through our "Young at Heart" section with the whimsical "Legend of the Lamb" and the lively "Tarantella." March to the beat of Sousa's "U.S. Field Artillery March," be moved by the majestic "Jerusalem," and delve into the mystical "Ghost Dances" and the vibrant "Fuego del Alma." The concert culminates with the "Hollywood Milestones" suite, a homage to the iconic film scores that have enchanted audiences for generations. This evening promises a blend of nostalgia, excitement, and awe-inspiring musical talent, making it an event not to be missed!

Jesus and Women (February 2024)

Tuesdays, February 6 – March 19, from 3 – 4:30 PM

“Jesus and Women,” by Kristi McLelland, profiles seven women Jesus encountered and what that means for us.  It explores how Jesus generously restores dignity and honor to the women in the first century.  You will gain deeper insight into the Biblical world, including a fresh perspective on familiar Bible stories, you will discover the Bible through the lens of Middle Eastern Culture, and you will understand Jesus more fully and fuel your worship of Him. Facilitated by Charlene English.

There is no cost for this study, but please pre-purchase book.

The Color of Compromise (February 2024)

Tuesdays, February 20 – May 7, from 6:30 – 8 PM (ZOOM)

In his book, “The Color of Compromise,” Jemar Tisby discusses how ideas of race developed over time and affected American society and churches from colonial times through today.

Via an online Zoom class, we will look at different responses to racial differences and social realities within denominations — including the Methodist Church — as well as different views of race and racism evident in churches today. Understanding where different ideas have come from historically can help us have a clearer vision of how to build understanding and agreement on a united future together and how biblical truths can bridge divides today.

There is no cost for this study, but please pre-purchase book. Facilitated by Vickie Southworth and Janice Swartz. Registration is required.

Bridging Gaps Through Conversation

Thursday, February 22 from 1:30–3:30 PM in the Fellowship Center

Please join us for a continuation of “Bridging Gaps Through Conversation” with diverse groups of people from different backgrounds in our community who will comfortably dialogue on the three topics that people find most difficult to discuss — race, religion, and politics. 

Snacks and drinks will be served. At the end of the discussion, a table leader will facilitate feedback. 

New Member Class

Wednesday, March 6 at 1 PM in the Chapel

Are you interested in becoming a member of New Covenant United Methodist Church? We have a couple of options for you. First, we offer an informational, in-person New Member class. You can register for this class online, or contact Ashley Hill.  Second, we also have a virtual video option available for those who are interested in partnering with New Covenant but live out of our area. 

Membership, in New Covenant or any United Methodist Church, means you will support the UMC by your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service and your witness. All of these are very important components of our Wesleyan heritage.  

For more information, please contact Ashley Hill.

Youth Group Meal

Our youth group is a vital part of our church community, and we invite you to join us in supporting them through a special initiative. Consider purchasing a meal for our youth group on Sundays, providing a delicious meal, and fostering connections and support for these young members. Your generosity ensures they have a meal to fellowship together both spiritually and socially. Click the button below to choose which option you would like to purchase for the youth group and make a secure online payment. Thank you for making a positive impact on the spiritual journey of our future leaders!

Helping Hands Partnership with Habitat for Humanity

Want to have some fun? Volunteers are needed for the home being constructed by New Covenant and Habitat for Humanity. No tools (other than a pair of work gloves) or construction experience is needed. 

Volunteer workdays will be Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 7:30 AM to 12 PM. If you are interested in adding your name to the volunteer list, please contact Janine Rogers.

ZOE Empowers

April 9 through April 19, 2024

Travel to Zimbabwe to visit the New Covenant ZOE group. You will be inspired by the story of these young entrepreneurs and their group projects that have allowed them to go from poverty to self-sufficiency. We have two possible flights from which you may choose: you may leave Tuesday, April 9 or Wednesday, April 10. Please see the flight details below

April 9 (27 Hours)

• Delta from Orlando to ATL, then non-stop to Johannesburg. 
• Spent night in JNB and fly to Harare the next day.
• ZOE: $1,400, Flight $1,917, Hotel $200, Total $3,517

April 10 (33 Hours)

• Kenya Airlines from Orlando to NYC to Nairobi and Harare, Zimbabwe. 
• ZOE: $1,400, Flight $1,776, Total $3,176

For more information, please contact Charles Stuart.

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 tag! Our pastors love to call people by their name during greeting and in communion time, so please make a point of wearing your name tag. If you don’t have one, you can purchase one online or visit the Computer Center after worship services.

Everywhere you go, you have an ID card — whether it is the gym, the grocery store, or a rec center. An important part of being hospitable is scanning your New Covenant ID card when you come in. This helps us know you are present at worship or at events. It is great when we get to learn names this way or 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. You can get an ID card on the weekends at the Computer Center or during the week at the Administrative office.

To order a nametag online, please use the link below.

Jeff Bain and Family and Sonya

Melba Cashman

Debbie Moore Eason

Carol Fiore

Anita Grede and daughter Andrea

Carol Keck

Jeff Kober

Cindy Ladow

MG Meyering

Michelle

Harry Rodkey

Alice Shumlas

Mary Starkey

Tom and Dena Yohe

The prayer quilts on the altar are for...

Angela who is having breast surgery.

Deborah for family healing.

Diana who is going through cancer treatment.

Jackie who is dealing with a difficult diagnosis.

Nancy who is struggling with stomach cancer.

Robert who is retiring from New Covenant.

We request your prayers for these prayer quilts. Please pray for healing, comfort, and peace. Click on the quilt to be taken to our Facebook Page, where you can "Like" the post to tie a knot virtually.

Our prayers, love, and sympathy are extended to...

The family and friends of Roland “Ron” G. Frank on his passing.

The family and friends of Sheryl “Sherri” A. Defilipp on her passing.

Our Altar Flowers have been provided by… 

Ann & Jim Heilbron in loving memory of their son, Brett, on his birthday.

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.