God's work in mission always propels us to encounter the neighbor, particularly in the stranger. The Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts has joined with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to bring a gathering Saturday, March 3, at Cathedral Church of St. Paul, 

138 Tremont St., Boston, to equip us for God's work in today's global and local realities and their "glocal" intersections.  This is one of many "glocal" (connecting global and local) events being held across the country, sponsored by ELCA Global Mission. The Boston event brings together both Episcopal and Lutheran congregational teams and leaders for worship, workshops, and sharing, around global and local mission, focusing on Genesis 4.9, "Then the Lord said to Cain, 'where is your brother Abel?' He said, 'I do not know; am I my brother's keeper?'" Cost is only $25. Learn more.

Check out the synod website to read an article about the close relationship between Peace Lutheran Church, Wayland, Mass., and its next door neighbor, the Jewish Congregation Or Atid. Each week, we post a new mission story about how a congregation or parishioner in the synod is serving as God's hands, doing God's work.  If you have such a story, we'd love to use it. Don't worry about grammar; just send along the basic info, as well as a photo, and we'll take it from there. Send to sisterv@nesynod.org.

College-age people who are thinking about ordained ministry -- as well as supporters who want to help them discern a vocation -- should plan now to be in Cambridge on Saturday, March 3. That's when Project Connect New England will host its first event at University Lutheran Church. According to the Rev. Jim Hazelwood, pastor of St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Charlestown, R.I.,  "This is the new way we are introducing service opportunities to the next generation of future church leaders."  It's the perfect venue to engage with pastors and youth directors, discover internship opportunities, find out more about outdoor ministry opportunities, and plan their "next steps."

Hazelwood and the rest of  the Project Connect New England "team" are excited about both the event and its location. "It's a great way to learn about one congregation's mission in a wonderful city," he said. "There will be all kinds of networking opportunities, plus plenty of time to explore Boston. And it's FREE!" So, who should attend? "Anyone who is considering ordained ministry, or another form of service to the church," said Hazelwood, adding, "Red Sox fans are welcome, too."  For more information, contact Hazelwood or download brochure.

Region 7 of Women of the ELCA will host a Women's Spiritual Retreat, "Angels among Us," April 27-29 at The Purdy Center at Camp-of-the-Woods, Speculator, N.Y. Click here for details, flyer, registration form and scholarship info. Questions? Contact O'B Rock at obrock@comcast.net or 508.431.2598.