Horizons and Bridges of Dialogue

Interreligious Dialogue and Social Cohesion in the Coastal Kenya

Abstract

This research article explores the way in which the Roman Catholic Church (RCC) has brought to life the interreligious principles of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), as articulated in its Magna Carta Nostra Aetate (NA), which served as the Church’s official doctrine and stance on its relationship with non-Christian religions and world cultures. The article also delves into the RCC’s interpretation of postconciliar exhortations, including the Papal encyclicals and magisterium, in its religious and social activities to foster community cohesion and peaceful co-existence in Kenya. It explores the theological outcomes of interreligious dialogue and its pastoral practice in the Coastal Kenya. It scrutinizes the RCC’s contribution to religious moderation and social cohesion through its multifaceted dialogue initiatives with the civil society, religious, and corporate communities. It empirically analyzes the numerous initiatives and ambitious development programs, i.e., education and charity, empowerment through conferences, training, and theological exchanges with the religious other. It utilises qualitative and quantitative approaches to gather empirical data from 140 respondents through interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and questionnaires. From the empirical data it evaluated the impact and outcome of RCC’s interreligious programs and how dialogue can reshape prevailing stereotypes about other religions in a pluralistic context.