Buddhist Christianity makes a valuable contribution to the debate, as well as offering helpful autobiographical data about the lived experience of trying to combine the thought and practice of two traditions. Having journeyed from the Christianity of his childhood, through atheism, teenage Buddhism, and Christian ministry, Thompson explains that he has now arrived at a sense of unconditional allegiance to both Christianity and Buddhism, despite seeing real differences between them. This book is a theological exploration of this two-fold allegiance, in which Thompson attempts to show that Buddhist Christian dual belonging is both legitimate and beneficial. This book will perhaps be most valuable to Christians wishing to engage in the crucial task of revitalising and transforming Christianity through openness to the insights of others. ~ Ross Drew, Modern Believing

Dual-belonging is a growing sociological phenomenon in our postmodern culture. Ross Thompson's subtle and poetic narrative, personal honesty and thoughtful exploration of his own spiritual pilgrimage within Christianity and Buddhism evokes the traditions of earlier spiritual pioneers like Thomas Merton and Raimundo Panikkar. Thompson, an Anglican priest, poses profound, liberating and troubling questions to anyone involved in either Buddhism or Christianity. And he poses the further question: how do we, in integrity, belong to both? ~ Gavin D'Costa, Professor of Catholic Theology, University of Bristol

Both the depth and the sparkle of this book result from the way Thompson combines what he calls passionate openness with absolute allegiance to both Buddhism and Christianity, without denying the real differences between them. Quite a feat. But he brings it off with both conceptual clarity and poetic imagery. On topics ranging from the nature of the self to the nature of the universe, Thompson brings Buddhism and Christianity into a conversation that both prods and enlightens. For Christians, the end result is to be a Christian in a Buddhist way. For many Christians, I suspect, it will be a more satisfying way. I look forward to using this book with my students. ~ Paul Knitter, Paul Tillich Professor of Theology, World Religions, and Culture, Union Theological Seminary

Combining sensitive personal reflection with pioneering theological exploration, Ross Thompson draws on his experience of the enrichment of Christian faith by Buddhist spirituality and addresses profound questions arising out of the dialogue between these two traditions. In an age in which many individuals find themselves influenced by several religious traditions, the question of how far it is possible to draw fruitfully and authentically on more than one tradition is ever more pressing. This book makes a valuable contribution to the emerging debate; it will appeal to scholars and non-scholars alike. ~ Dr. Rose Drew, Acting Director of the Centre for Inter-Faith Studies, University of Glasgow

In this exciting and very personal record Ross Thompson tells the impact that both, Christianity and Buddhism actually have on his own spirituality and shares with the reader his attempts to keep both in a somewhat tense but nevertheless mutually fertilizing and resonating relationship that allows him to live as a Buddhist Christian. At a time when an increasing number of people experience that their own religious identity is nourished by different religious traditions, many will find this book helpful and inspiring while others will certainly contest either the whole idea of combining what they wish to keep segregated or the specific ways in which the author strives to accomplish his goal. ~ Perry Schmidt-Leukel, Professor of Intercultural Theology, University of Muenster

The modern multi-faith world has become a rich melting pot for religious ideas. Faiths from Eastern and Western countries meet and influence one another. Also, within each tradition, the impact of cultural diversity throws open different strands of thought, challenging the practitioner to find a spiritual path amid choices in belief and practice which would have baffled our forefathers. Ross Thompson writes from his own experience of such a situation. This book is, in many ways, an account of his journey. Coming from the heart, it is a compelling read, which is nonetheless carefully argued and illustrated from Thompson's wide knowledge of the breadth of both traditions. A book which speaks to our time, this work will be fascinate, inform and challenge anyone with the openness to investigate the meaning of faith ~ Caroline Brazier, Author of The Other Buddhism, senior ordained member of Amida Order

The encounters between Buddhists and Christians that have occurred in the last few decades have opened refreshingly new and uncharted ways of being religious. In this book the author recounts his own personal journey leading him to a firm commitment to a Buddhist view and way of life, and also rediscovering the richness of his own Christian heritage, maintaining fidelity and devoting himself in service in ministry. Offering thought-provoking theological reflections and insights, this book opens new horizons in the exciting adventure of multiple religious belonging being undertaken by more and more of our contemporaries in our twenty-first century global society. ~ Ruben Habito, Professor of World Religions and Spirituality, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University