Judith A. Berling, professor of History of Religions at Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, has spent time in the People's Republic studying the ancient tradition of religious diversity and hospitality. A Pilgrim in Chinese Culture presents a stunning portrait of the ways in which Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and animism are able to coexist and even "sustain mutual familiarity and regular interaction." Berling's travels enable her to appreciate the Chinese ability to maintain multiple levels of faith and many streams of practice. "All paths," she writes, "help the faithful in their spiritual progress."
What is most interesting and important about Berling's encounters with Chinese religious pluralism is the emphasis upon hospitality. Within towns, families host community-wide religious festivals. They also adopt religious practices from several traditions into their devotional lives.
This Chinese model of hospitality is a good one for Christians to emulate in twenty-first century America. The time has come for moving beyond Christian exclusivism, chauvinism, and distrust of "the other." The spiritual practices of other religions can be utilized by Christians in enriching and fulfilling ways. Ditto for neighborly cooperation and participation in religious holidays and festivals.