The inaugural Getting To Know You Spring Tea will be held March 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Church of God at Jerusalem Acres, 1826 Dalton Pike in Cleveland.

Sonja Luckie, director of The Women of Ruth International in Cleveland, said women of all ages and all faiths are invited to attend the Spring Tea with the hope of strengthening the community. Organizers plan to make it an annual event.

“Every organization, including the church, is looking for something to stimulate positive activity,” said Luckie.

“The emphasis here is for the churches to get together and do positive things for the community. That is the goal. There are a lot of new people moving into the community and sometimes those people get kind of lost even though their neighbors try to befriend them.

“This is a way for everyone to interact. There are things in Cleveland that the community needs, especially for the children. By getting together and sharing ideas — this will be a good avenue for addressing those needs. We’re inviting women — church or no church — to participate.”

“God compels us to reach out to others and that’s what we’re doing,” said Arthella Mizell, who is on the decorating committee. “We all have a common denominator, which is Jesus Christ.”

The all-ladies event will include refreshments, fellowship and a special guest speaker, according to Luckie.

Henrietta Wilson, assistant director, said it’s inspiring to see the hospitality of so many women in Cleveland and the Women of Ruth would like to expand on that hospitality.

“It’s an inspiration that our community has wonderful church people who — when you talk to them on the phone — they talk about the Lord and are happy to help you. That’s what we want to do — help people and have some fun in the Lord.”

Women of Ruth Secretary Marlene M. Carney added, “We love people and we want to fellowship with the new women who are moving into our area.”

To reserve a seat, call 472-7265 or e-mail Women of Ruth at: tcogjeracr@aol.com.