New Covenant launched in 1999. It is located in a fast growing area of the Leesburg District known as “The Villages.” When the area is built out, it will house more than 70,000 new residents.

One could feel an air of excitement as we gathered in one of the community rooms at La Hacienda for this thrilling service. There was a great spirit present when we shared our praises to God for this new part of God’s family. It is intentional about making disciples. It is already offering Disciple Bible Study and prayer study groups. Outreach is a part of its vocabulary. This new congregation is already encouraging the district to start another new work in this area. The laity are asking, “Where does God want me to serve?”

The Rev. Gary Bullock, founding pastor, led worship as District Superintendent Rev. Walter Edwards gave direction to the Constituting Church Conference and its first Charge Conference for the purpose of authorizing the church to incorporate. They welcomed 302 charter members into this new family of faith.

New Covenant United Methodist Church exists today because someone saw an unreached population and prayed that God would use them to help build a new United Methodist church in this area. The Leesburg District initiated the response, the cabinet appointed the pastor, and the Conference Committee on New Church Development and Church Redevelopment helped fund the pastoral compensation package for the first three years. Nearby congregations sent laity to this new venture.