In pursuit of its mission to incorporate ecumenical and interfaith dialogue into theological education, Hekima University College has established the Centre for Interfaith Studies in Africa (CISA). Located on the Riara Road campus, the center began its first academic year (2024-2025) with enthusiasm and a strong commitment to promoting meaningful engagement among various faith traditions.
During the first semester, the Centre actively participated in two momentous events: the Harmony Institute’s Scriptural Reasoning sessions and Jamia Mosque Nairobi’s Open-Doors Day. These initiatives reflect the Centre’s unwavering dedication to cultivating deeper interreligious understanding and fostering constructive dialogue in an increasingly pluralistic world.
Exploring Sacred Texts: Scriptural Reasoning at Harmony Institute
The Harmony Institute facilitates monthly Scriptural Reasoning sessions, bringing together people of diverse faiths to engage in comparative analysis of their sacred scriptures. These gatherings aim to highlight shared beliefs, deepen theological understanding, and dismantle misconceptions, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect.
One session centered on the figure of Abraham, with Sr. Mary Frances Sebastian, LSSJ, guiding the discussion with scholarly depth and pastoral sensitivity. Participants examined Abraham’s story as narrated in the Bible (Genesis 12:1-3, 15:1-6, 17:1-8, 22:16-18) and in the Quran (Surah 2:124-125, 16:120-121, 22:78, 37:100-101)
The discussion illuminated key commonalities and theological nuances:
- Faith and Obedience – Both the Bible and the Quran extol Abraham’s unwavering trust in God. In the Biblical narrative, he is called to leave his homeland; in the Quran, he is commended for his monotheistic devotion.
- The Covenant – While the Bible emphasizes the covenant through Isaac, the Quran highlights Abraham’s connection to Ishmael, offering a rich perspective on shared heritage and diverse theological traditions.
- The Near-Sacrifice of Abraham’s Son—Though this foundational narrative is shared, it differs in interpretation. The Bible identifies Isaac, whereas the Islamic tradition generally holds that it was Ishmael, though the Quran does not explicitly name him.
These discussions, rather than being simple theological exercises, strengthen interfaith bonds and encourage participants to transcend doctrinal differences in favor of a spirit of unity and mutual enrichment.
Discussions during a Scriptural Reasoning Session
Stepping Inside the Mosque: Open-Doors Day at Jamia Mosque Nairobi
Parallel to the Scriptural Reasoning sessions, the Center for Interfaith Studies at Hekima University College actively participated in Jamia Mosque Nairobi’s Open-Doors Day. This annual initiative embodies Islam’s commitment to interfaith dialogue and hospitality. This immersive experience allowed attendees to explore the mosque’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage and even take part in the Midday Prayer, guided by an Imam who offered insightful explanations of the gestures and meanings embedded in the prayer. Discussions throughout the event delved into critical interfaith themes, including the following: the role of hospitality in a multicultural society; Islam and social media: the role of platforms like TikTok; Islamic views on images and representation; predestination vs. free will in theology; the concept of repentance in Islam; and the inculturation of Islam in Africa. These thought-provoking conversations highlighted a shared desire for deeper understanding and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that interfaith dialogue is not merely an academic pursuit but a necessary pathway toward communal harmony.
Inside Jamia Masjid on Open Doors’ Day
Paving the Way for a More Inclusive Future
The first semester of CISA’s journey has established a strong foundation for fostering unity in diversity. By actively engaging in Scriptural Reasoning and interfaith dialogue initiatives, the Center has showcased the transformative power of shared experiences in bridging divides and promoting peace. As the world grapples with increasing religious and cultural tensions, Hekima University College’s Center for Interfaith Studies in Africa stands as a beacon of hope, paving the way for a future where understanding prevails over division and dialogue leads to lasting cooperation.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening the Ties that Bind
The momentum is building, and CISA remains dedicated to expanding its initiatives. Future programs will continue to create spaces where Christians, Muslims, and people of other faith traditions can learn from one another, challenge biases, and build enduring friendships. Through such engagements, the Center is not merely discussing interfaith dialogue—it is actively living it.