THE CATHOLIC CHURCH AND INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE: THE ONITSHA ARCHDIOCESAN EXPERIENCE

Abstract

The paper analyzed the role of the Catholic Church in fostering interreligious dialogue, recognizing the importance of fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among different faith traditions. This commitment is deeply rooted in Catholic teaching and has been reinforced by key Church documents and papal initiatives. Some of Church documents on interreligious dialogue discussed in this work included Nostra Aetate, Lumen Gentium, Gaudium et Spes, Ad Gentes, Ecclesian Suan and Evangeli Nuntiandi among others. The Church recognizes the value of other religions and seeks to foster respectful exchanges while upholding its own doctrinal integrity. The study discovered that while interreligious dialogue presents challenges, such as theological differences and historical tensions, it remains a crucial aspect of the Church’s commitment to ecumenism and global harmony. By embracing dialogue, the Catholic Church continues to work towards building bridges of understanding in an increasingly pluralistic world. At local level, the Catholic Diocese of Onitsha has been effective in engaging interreligious dialogue. Despite the challenges of religious tensions, doctrinal differences, and occasional conflicts, the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha continues to uphold dialogue as a vital tool for fostering social cohesion.