Indeed, expressing one's own faith is a necessary condition of interreligious dialogue. This receiving of hospitality is not limited to food and drink but extends to what is precious to our neighbors. The concept of respectful presence is helpful when Presbyterians consider the implications of the Reformed tradition for Christian relationships with persons of other religious faiths. Respectful presence is authentic attentiveness to the symbolic expressions of other religious communities. Respectful presence also means Christian willingness to offer witness in our liturgical expressions of the presence of God.
Respectful presence goes beyond mere tolerance.
It engages Christians in receiving as well as giving testimony to deep religious convictions and actions. In exploring the possibilities of respectful presence, Presbyterians possess wise resources from the church's confessions and statements. The church's confessions are consistent in their affirmation of the universal providence of God. We should be loving and unafraid in our dealings with them. Repeatedly God has used the insight of non-Christians to challenge the church to renewal.