Ecumenical and Interreligious Identities in Nigeria: Transformation through Dialogue

(Hardback)

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Description

Dialogue can bring about transformation. That conviction grounds Ikenna Paschal Okpalekes argument concerning dialogue between groups, and ecumenical and interreligious dialogue in particular. This book examines the fundamental question: What are the additional assets and transformed views which Christian denominations committed to ecumenical dialogue can bring to the table of interreligious dialogue If Christian dialogue partners, particularly in Nigeria (in this case, Anglicans and Roman Catholics), can change how they perceive one another moving from antagonism to friendship, division to unity then they, as ecumenically-transformed Christians, can better engage in fruitful and transforming dialogue with the religious other, particularly Muslims. This book addresses: a) the constituents of communal identity and the impact of dialogue on such identity, b) how the Anglican-Roman Catholic dialogue has (or has not) transformed the communal identities of the dialogue partners, particularly in the local context of Nigeria, c) the ways in which the perceived advantages of a transformative model of dialogue, shaped by ecumenical encounter and dialogue, can be applied to interreligious encounter and dialogue, and d) how theological reflection interacts with praxis in promoting transformation through dialogue.

Reviews

This innovative study explores new possibilities for religious dialogue in Nigeria. It shows how lessons learned from Christian ecumenical dialogue, especially between Anglicans and Roman Catholics, can give fresh impetus to interfaith dialogue between Christians and Muslims. After the painful history of religious division and violence in Nigeria, a study such as this points to a better way forward. Ikenna Paschal Okpaleke writes with passion and hope. This book will encourage Christians working for peace and reconciliation in many troubled parts of the world.

Author Bio

Ikenna Paschal Okpaleke is a visiting scholar at the Institute of Hermeneutics, University of Bonn, and a postdoctoral research associate at the faculty of theology, University of Trier.