Practicing hospitality to the stranger : theological reflections on churches on the way to cultural diversity

How do faith communities deal with the transition to cultural diversity in a manner that is faithful to Scripture? What is God's intention for a faith community in transition to cultural diversity? The narrative of hospitality to the stranger is proposed, in contrast to narratives of unity and diversity, as one significant answer. Old Testament and New Testament views of the stranger indicate both the call to be a pilgrim stranger as well as to embrace the stranger. The church is seen as a company of strangers that becomes the household of God. Hospitality is shown to be a particularly powerful way of relating to difference, as it involves welcoming, giving and receiving. Local congregations can benefit from the narrative by practicing hospitality to the stranger in the following movements: (a) inviting; (b) gift-giving; (c) feasting; (d) sharing of stories; (e) providing room; (f) becoming part of a household, and; (g) sharing a journey. Such movements embrace diversity in radical but affirming ways.