The relationship between the East and the West has long been one of mutual fascination, characterized by varying degrees of understanding. The world travels of Marco Polo in the 13th century represent a notable point of intersection between western and eastern cultures, and his writings sparked significant curiosity among Europeans. That interest is not limited to secular culture. The Church in the West continues to have significant interest in China as a whole, and some of the most well-worn stories of early missionaries encompass the vast and vastly different cultures in China.