Mombasa: In a groundbreaking achievement that bridges two of the world’s largest faiths, a Catholic priest has earned a PhD in Christian and Islamic Studies, showcasing the power of dialogue and understanding of both religions. This achievement sets the stage for conversations about unity, respect, and common ground in an increasingly polarized world.
According to Kenya News Agency, Reverend Richard Ooko Airo, a priest of the Roman Catholic Church Archdiocese of Mombasa and currently in charge of St. Joseph Tudor Parish, has graduated and earned a PhD in Christian and Islamic Studies. Rev. Airo, who also serves as the Director of Interreligious Dialogue, expressed that his deep understanding of both Islam and Christianity opens the door to more meaningful and nuanced interfaith dialogue.
Rev. Airo believes that 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. He noted that his studies encompassed C
hristian Theology of other religions, Islamic history and civilizations, fundamentals for interreligious dialogue, Islamic Sharia Law and the Arabic Language, as well as 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.
Drawing from his Ph.D. research thesis, “Interreligious Dialogue and Social Cohesion: The Pastoral Approach of the Roman Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Mombasa (1983-2023),” Rev. Airo cited Mombasa as a leading example of interfaith harmony in Kenya. He noted that 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 Rev. Airo, this inclusive environment positions Mombasa as a model for interreligious dialogue and social cohesion, not just in Kenya but across the region.
However, he noted that many stereotypes created against religions create conflicts
among people. Rev. Airo highlighted that working closely with the Coast Interfaith Council of Clerics (CICC) has fostered love that is breaking the barriers of suspicion, stereotyping, and hatred, and teaching the importance of living together in harmony.
When asked about how he navigates teachings from both religions, especially given notable differences, Rev. Airo emphasized that Islam and Christianity are both Abrahamic religions, meaning they both trace back to Abraham. He noted that there are no major differences, as both religions have similar teachings, and that differences are mainly due to stereotypes and a lack of deep understanding.
Airo stressed that fostering knowledge and dialogue can help dismantle misconceptions and highlight the shared values that unite the two religions. “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 emphasized.