Interfaith Hospitality

I just read an encouraging piece by John Buchanan in the Christian Century magazine . It's about a Jewish Rabbi who approached a downtown Presbyterian congregation in Chicago about using its chapel for Friday evening worship. The synagogue  for the Jewish congregation was 15 kilometres away in the 'burbs and a number of members lived downtown. Using the chapel would help them avoid the Friday afternoon rush-hour. The Presbyterian session said yes, and then yes again when the rabbi wondered if they could stay in the building for fellowship after the service.

Then the Sinai Congregation decided to sell its building, but couldn't find affordable premises downtown. Would it be possible to hold their high and holy days in the sanctuary rather than the chapel of the church? Those decent Presbyterians said yes again and at times the place was filled with Jewish worshippers.

All this door opening led to a rich and meaningful relationship between the two congregations. After 911 they had an interfaith prayer service. The pastor and rabbi offered a bible study on the Book of Ruth. There was lots of opportunity to talk about Jesus as an observant Jew and how the Last Supper was a Passover seder. When the Presbyterian denomination discussed divestment because of the Israeli/Palestinian situation the congregations were able to talk it through together.

This practical Jewish/Christian dialogue has opened up the vision of God's covenants in both directions and the possibilities of "tikkun olam," or "mending the world."

What do you think about this story? Would you be open to a similar arrangement in your church building? Is there a need for greater dialogue?