A Catholic priest has earned a PhD in Christian and Islamic Studies, showcasing the power of dialogue and understanding of both religions.
This has set the stage for conversations about unity, respect and common ground in the increasingly polarised world.
Reverend Richard Airo, a priest of the Roman Catholic Church Archdiocese of Mombasa, currently in charge of St Joseph Tudor Parish on Thursday graduated with a PhD in Christian and Islamic studies.
Airo, who is also the director of Interreligious Dialogue, said his deep understanding of Islam and Christianity opens the door to more meaningful and nuanced interfaith dialogue.
He said being well versed in the core teachings of each religion not only fosters mutual respect but also lays the groundwork for building bridges between communities.
Airo noted that he studied Christian theology of other religions, Islamic history and civilisations, fundamentals for interreligious dialogue, Islamic sharia law and the Arabic language, and the history of Christian and Muslim relations, “Studying these courses opened my scope of understanding much more about Islam and I grew to love the religion,” he said.
In his thesis, ‘Interreligious Dialogue and Social Cohesion: The Pastoral Approach of the Roman Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Mombasa ( 1983-2023 )’, Airo cited Mombasa as a leading example of interfaith harmony in Kenya.
He said the city’s rich religious diversity has fostered a unique “dialogue of life”, where people from various faiths coexist and collaborate in their daily lives.
According to Airo, this inclusive environment positions Mombasa as a model for interreligious dialogue and social cohesion, not just in Kenya but also across the region.
He, however, noted that the many stereotypes created against religions are what create conflicts among the people. Airo said the Coast Interfaith Council of Clerics is breaking the barriers of suspicion, stereotyping and hatred and teaching the importance of living together in harmony.
He said Islam and Christianity are Abrahamic religions, meaning they both emanate from Abraham. Airo said there are no major differences as both religions have the same teachings.
“We need to dialogue, sit down and see what separates us and fight
for what unites us and we shall
find harmony in our coexistence,”
he said.