Interfaith Dialogue on “Jesus in the Bible and in the Qur’an” – CSR

Overview

The initiative brought together multiple interfaith activities aimed at strengthening Christian–Muslim relations through dialogue, shared learning, and real-life engagement.
The program included a formal interfaith dialogue, a scriptural reasoning forum, and an educational field experience in Lamu, offering participants both academic and experiential perspectives on interfaith relations.
Together, these activities created a comprehensive platform for understanding religious beliefs, challenging stereotypes, and fostering meaningful relationships across faith communities.

Objectives

Promote mutual understanding between Christians and Muslims.
Encourage engagement with sacred texts through scriptural reasoning.
Provide experiential learning opportunities to understand religious practices.
Strengthen interfaith dialogue platforms within academic and community settings.
Build long-term relationships that support peace and coexistence.

Project Activities

A. Interfaith Dialogue

Topic: Jesus in the Bible and in the Qur’an
Date: October 22, 2025

Presentations by:
- Prof. Samuel Ngewa – Jesus in the Bible
- Dr. Hassan Omar – Jesus in the Qur’an
Panel discussion with interfaith scholars
Interactive Q&A session

Focus Areas:

Birth and miracles of Jesus
His role in both faiths
Ascension and return
Theological similarities and differences

B. Scriptural Reasoning Forum

Date: October 8, 2025

Participants engaged in joint reading and discussion of sacred texts:

Qur’an: Surah 41 & Surah 2
Bible: Genesis & John

Key Features:

Mixed interfaith discussion groups
Text-based dialogue approach
Group presentations and plenary discussion

Impact:

Encouraged respectful, non-polemical discussions
Built confidence in discussing religious texts across faiths
Highlighted need for continued interfaith learning

C. Educational Interfaith Visit – Lamu

Date: September 15–20, 2025

A field-based learning experience during Maulid celebrations.

Activities:

Visit to Riyadha Mosque
Participation in religious and cultural events
Dialogue on birth of Muhammad and Jesus
Visits to schools, mosques, and museum

Key Learning:

Understanding Islam through lived experience
Exposure to religious and cultural diversity
Importance of dialogue beyond academic settings

Outcomes

Improved understanding of shared beliefs between Christianity and Islam.
Increased confidence in engaging in interfaith dialogue.
Reduction of stereotypes through direct interaction and experience.
Strengthened relationships between students, scholars, and religious leaders.
Establishment of a foundation for ongoing interfaith initiatives.