Though Christians and Muslims in Ghana have a history of coexistence in the region, there has been a lack of formal interaction between the two groups of believers. One of the main goals of Father Mak Caesar Abagna’s workshop was to bring Christians and Muslims in Ghana together for formal dialogue and introduce Christian and Muslim leaders to the perspective that interreligious dialogue is not a threat to one’s faith, but a medium to build peace.
Almost all the Catholic priests of the Diocese, and the bishop, participated in the workshop. Representatives from the Muslim community were present, including the Deputy Regional Chief Imam and a Municipal Chief Imam, both of whom made important contributions to the workshop by offering short discourses on Islamic beliefs.
The immediate result of this project was the unanimous request from the participants for an ongoing formal dialogue between the two religions in the region.
Partners for this project included the Catholic Diocese of Navrongo-Bolgatanga and the Office of the Regional Chief Imam. The Diocesan Coordinator for Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue showed much interest and championed the execution of the project.
“Ignorance has made us suspicious of one another. We have more in common than differences” – workshop participant.
- 53 Catholic priests and 1 Catholic Bishop attended
- 15 Muslim and 3 Imams participated
