Message in a Minute

Click the image above to hear from Pastor Ellen as well as to learn about the three Key Announcements for this week!

Spiritual Reflection

“Who we say that Jesus is… says who we are.”

Len Sweet

Bargains & Blessing Volunteers Needed

Each dollar earned in our Bargains & Blessings Resale store is used to support various ministries in our community. We would love for you to be a part of this outreach by volunteering to help with a variety of duties that include scheduling, cashiering, labeling items for sale, sorting items that come in, helping customers, or volunteering in Family Interface (located inside the store) to support families in our local community. 

Any amount of time you can provide Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM – 4 PM would be appreciated. If you are interested, please contact Stephanie Ashkenaz using the button below or call the store at (352) 330-3333.

Symphonic Winds

To Dance in the Secret Garden

Sunday, April 21 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center

Immerse yourself in an evening of enchanting melodies and unprecedented musical discoveries with Symphonic Winds. Kickstarting the event with the vibrant La Peri Fanfare, we're venturing into uncharted territories with a selection of pieces making their debut performance in The Villages. Among these, Randall Thompson's transcendent "Alleluia," originally a choral masterpiece, has been reimagined by our very own Lewis Buckley into a symphonic treasure. Prepare to be captivated by "Rising Dragons," a powerful tribute to a legendary Korean war hero, and embark on an emotional journey with "At the End of the Rainbow," which explores our universal quest for belonging and purpose. Additionally, our program includes a spirited Sousa march, the whimsical "Eine Kleine Yiddishe Ragmusik," and the "Young Person's Guide to John Williams," promising a concert that resonates with audiences of all ages, especially the young and young-at-heart. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to experience the magic of live music and celebrate the rich tapestry of sounds that only Symphonic Winds can deliver. Secure your seat for a musical evening that promises to be nothing short of spectacular!

Tickets may be also purchased at the door ($15).

Holy Land Trip 2025 — Informational Meeting

Wednesday, April 24 at 9 AM in the Chapel

Please join Pastor Harold at the upcoming informational meeting to learn about his next Holy Land trip.

He will lead another Christian pilgrimage to the Holy Land next year, Monday, March 31–Tuesday, April 9, 2025. The tour will include Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Sea of Galilee, Jacob’s Well, Samaria, Emmaus, Megiddo, Mount Carmel, Jericho, Qumran, Masada, and the Dead Sea.

You may attend the informational meeting or click the button below to read the full brochure. Brochures are also located at the “Welcome Center” in the East Narthex. To register, please visit the EO website. 

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 online (click the button below).

We want to remind you that the Praying Together group 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!

Tithing

So, let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessings if we don’t give up. (Galatians 6:9)

Tithing should be looked on as the “bare bones” of our giving. As we look at the Scriptures we find that the tithe is not a law but rather a principle.  It is a principle that if followed will do two things for us. First, it is a physical, measurable evidence of our belief in God’s ownership of all we have.  Secondly, tithing gives God some seed to multiply.

Legacy Giving 

Re-evaluate your insurance needs – life insurance beneficiaries can be changed to include your church.

Villages Concert Band

Thursday, April 11 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

Step into the vibrant world of music and springtime rejuvenation with "Celebrate Spring," a mesmerizing concert by The Villages Concert Band. Set against the backdrop of the season's renewal, this concert is a vibrant tapestry of melodies ranging from the spirited marches of "El Capitan" to the profound depths of "Dvorak Symphony #9" excerpts, and the rhythmic pulses of "Bolero." Revel in the nostalgia of "America" from West Side Story and hum along to the beloved tunes from "My Fair Lady." Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the essence of spring through a musical journey that promises to be as exhilarating as the season itself. Join us to capture the joy, renewal, and boundless energy of spring through the universal language of music.

Tickets may be purchased at the door ($15).

Invitation from Warren Willis Camp

Saturday, April 13 from 9 AM – 5 PM (please arrive by 11 AM)

Join us and Bishop Tom Berlin for a Summer Camp Prep and Clean-up Day. Let’s work together to create a vibrant space for an unforgettable Summer Camp experience for all the campers who come to Warren Willis this summer. It’s a day of service and bonding, where we’ll unite to spruce up our beloved campgrounds and make creative props for our Games of Life summer theme. We will have plenty of water, Gatorade, and pizza for everyone. Let’s get our hands dirty for a good cause! This is your opportunity to make a real difference for all our summer campers. We can’t wait to see the extraordinary impact we can make together!

The Village Ringers present

“Put Your Dancin’ Shoes On!”

Sunday, April 14 at 3 PM in the Fellowship Center

Village Ringers present "Put Your Dancin' Shoes On!" Directed by Bonnie Fisher, come hear - and see live dancers - as handbells perform beautiful dances of all sorts - waltz, folk, Irish, line dance, even Doo-Wop! You'll have the opportunity to cut a rug yourself!

Tickets may also be purchased at the door ($15).

Terrific Tuesday Dinner Event (April 2024)

Tuesday, April 16 from 4:45 PM – 7 PM

Pastor Harold is leading a Terrific Tuesday series titled, “Jesus by the Sea.” During the three-year ministry of Jesus, He spent more time around the Sea of Galilee than any other location. We find that the greatest teachings, miracles, and callings of Jesus came around that body of water. During this series, Pastor Harold will pick a key event that is connected to the Sea of Galilee and explore the meaning with us. Join us as we follow Jesus around the lake. There is plenty to learn and discover. Join us as Pastor Harold is going to teach on Jesus turning the “water into wine.”

You may also come at 5:45 PM just to hear Pastor Harold's presentation without attending dinner — no charge and no registration required for the presentation only.

Menu: Caesar Salad, Breaded Veal Cutlet Parmigiana, Baked Ziti Pasta, Italian Green Beans, Dinner Roll & Butter, Tiramisu



Registration is required for dinner ($12). To register, please use the button below.

Dr. Kevin Cooke on Intermittent Fasting

Wednesday, April 17 at 1 PM in the Chapel

Intermittent fasting works because it’s not a diet — it’s a lifestyle.  We know that the brain and the gut are closely tied, and when you feed your brain is just as important as what you feed it. Join Dr. Kevin Cooke as he discusses how you can recharge your brain and body through an easy-to-follow nutritional strategy: intermittent fasting. You will learn the benefits of intermittent fasting down to a cellular level, with impacts on your waistline, energy levels, and brain function.

Dr. Cooke spent six years practicing family medicine in Apopka and was one of two lead physicians overseeing a group of 38 physicians in the north Orlando area. During his training, he received the intern of the year award, served as recruitment chair and held a leadership position on the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education committee. He is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

For more information on our Health Speaker Series, please contact Jackie Kuhn. No registration is needed; all are welcome.

Women's Monthly Gathering (April 2024)

“Make Me a Blessing”

Thursday, April 18 from 10–11:30 AM (with lunch to follow)

Join the women this month as we learn how God can “Make Me a Blessing”! We have a couple of surprises in store for you – so you don’t want to miss out! Pastor Ellen will kick us off with a devotion on God’s promise to Abraham about blessings and an extra special musical guest, Angie Rose, will bless us with special music! For the mission this month, we will be highlighting the blessing of several local and international missions in our community and world! As always, Chef John is preparing something extra wonderful for us as we share blessings with our friends for lunch!

Menu: Basil Chicken Sandwich with Fresh Mozzarella Cheese on a Brioche Roll, Almond Strawberry & Spinach Salad, Sweet Potato Chips, Chocolate Mousse Cake

Registration is required ($10).

The Choralettes present "An American Journey"

Tuesday, April 30 at 6 PM in the Fellowship Center

Experience the spirit of America like never before! Join the Villages Choralettes for an electrifying concert, "An American Journey," as we embark on a musical odyssey celebrating the very essence of our great nation. This isn't just a concert; it's a heart-stirring tribute to the heroes who have safeguarded our freedom and a nostalgic voyage through the timeless songs that echo the soul of America.

Prepare to be captivated by the power of music and community spirit in an evening where every note resonates with the stories of our land. Sing along with us, rekindle your patriotic pride, and revel in the melodies that have shaped our country's legacy.



This event is more than just entertainment; it's an opportunity to give back. Admission is free, but your generous love offerings will illuminate the paths of young souls embarking on missions of hope and service. Don't miss this chance to celebrate America and support a noble cause. Let's fill the air with music and our hearts with pride. Join us on this unforgettable American Journey!

Admission is Free (A Love Offering will be taken to support Youth Missions)

Good Grief

Thursdays, May 2 – June 6 from 1 PM – 3 PM

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Good Grief is a 6-week, Christ-centered support group meeting based on the book by Granger Westberg and the workbook/journal created by Chaplain Cecil Fike. Using the themes from the workbook, we share our stories together as we learn how to manage this journey that we call grief. Included in our time will be such topics as: The Process and Tasks of Grieving, The Individual Factors of Your Grief, Dealing with Sudden Death, and Facing Holidays and Special Anniversaries. Annamay Baldwin and Karen Cleveland will be the facilitators for this group. For more information, please contact Sharon Weimert.

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Registration is required ($20).

The Women of the Bible Speak

Mondays, Beginning April 22 from 9:30–11:30 AM

LOL (Ladies of Light) Small Group invites you to join them for their new 9-week study “The Women of the Bible Speak” by Shannon Bream (available from Amazon).

Through warm and engaging stories, this study reveals how central women were to God’s story in the Bible. They were courageous queens, strong mothers, and wise prophets. You will be introduced to brave, noble, and sometimes vulnerable or broken women. This study is a helpful tool to demonstrate – no matter what you are going through – other women experienced the same and still came out on top. No registration needed.

For more information, please contact Pat Hill.

Backpacks4Kids Benefit Concert

Shades of Blue Octet

Friday, May 10 at 7 PM in the Christian Life Center

The Shades of Blue Octet draws its musical lineage from the Dave Pell Octet, a celebrated ensemble that sprang from Les Brown's big band in the 1950s. This eight-piece band proudly carries forward a substantial collection of original arrangements from the Pell ensemble, embracing the contributions of iconic composers such as Marty Paich, Shorty Rogers, Bill Holman, and Andre Previn, among others. Under the leadership of Paul Holtzman, who also crafts arrangements, the group champions a distinct approach to jazz that prioritizes ensemble cohesion over extended solos. This emphasis on collective sound, powered by a blend of four horns and a guitar, channels the full-bodied resonance of a big band, despite the ensemble's more intimate size.

Adopting the West Coast Jazz style, the Shades of Blue stand out in the Villages for their unique musical offering, diverging from the more commonly performed genres of rock, country, and doo-wop. The band's composition features Chuck Mander on trumpet, Mike James wielding the tenor sax, Margaret Banton on baritone sax, Tommy Rocco on guitar, Bob Wilson at the piano keys, Al Cheatham handling the bass, Rod Jacobs on drums, and band leader Paul Holtzman on trombone. Adding a special touch to their performances, vocalist Donna Francis not only lends her voice to the ensemble but also offers insights into the band's repertoire, enhancing the audience's appreciation of their music.

Tickets ($25).

T-Shirts

If you ordered a church t-shirt, the order has been delayed and should be arriving first thing next week. You will receive a call from the church letting you know your order is ready. If you have already traveled north for the season, please contact Olivia Collins.

Additionally, we have a few extra shirts sizes: small and 2XL.

Need Digital Assistance? Mat's Got You Covered!

This weekend, between services, Mat Napp will be available at the Welcome Center in the East Narthex for personalized help and clarity on all things digital. Struggling to access our online services? Confused about QR codes? Mat will be there to provide guidance and support. Whether you're a tech whiz or just getting started, he is here to assist. See you there!

Hope for Hurting Parents

Second & Fourth Thursdays at 2 PM in Classroom 14

Hope for Hurting Parents (HHP) is a biweekly support group for parents and grandparents who are dealing with adult children who are struggling with addiction, incarceration, estrangement, mental health challenges, and other situations. HHP was developed by Tom and Dena Yohe, who have dealt with their own challenges and felt led to use their story to help others. Dena published a book, You Are Not Alone, which is available through Amazon and other sellers, and her writing helps us look to God with our life events, knowing that we have an Almighty God who walks with us. New Covenant is very fortunate to have these special groups to help others on their journey. For any questions, please contact Sharon Weimert, Care Ministry Specialist, using the link below.

Jeff Bain Family and Sonya

Evelyn Bain

Mary Baker & Family

Melanie Baker 

Kathleen Cannon

Larry Dore

David Hannaford

Ginger & John Hinkle

Tammi Hynes

Kelsey Maclay

Joan Marzo

Peggy Mills

Dr. Rev. Bill Moldwin

Reese Parente

Pam Pantall

Dawn Schwantz & Family

Tammi Hynes

Kelsey Maclay

Joan Marzo

Peggy Mills

Dr. Rev. Bill Moldwin

Reese Parente

Pam Pantall

Dawn Schwantz & Family

The prayer quilts on the altar are for...

Donna, who is having kidney cancer surgery.

Olivia, who is recovering from a personal trauma.

Pam, who has stage-3 lung cancer.

Suzanne, who needs surgery for pre-cancer on her tongue.

Tammi, who is undergoing cancer treatment.

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...

Craig & Martha Cashman, family and friends on the passing of his mother, Melba Cashman.

Altar Flowers

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, Care & Discipleship Ministry Assistant, using the button below.