LE3 .A278 2011

2011

Brackney, William

Acadia University

Master of Arts

Masters

Theology

Acadia Divinity College

This dialogical thesis is about interfaith dialogue – primarily between the Muslim and Christian faith communities within the province of Nova Scotia, Canada. Christian and Muslim religions make up half of all the world religions. In Canada Christianity has been the predominate religion throughout its history. That demographic is beginning to shift, with Islam as the fastest growing faith in Canada, and Christianity continuing its decline in numbers since the end of WWII. Canada’s culture is diverse and pluralistic, and heavily depends upon immigration to maintain its population growth and workforce. Canada has a strong record on Human Rights and embraces its rich diversity which makes it culturally distinct on the world stage. This creates a golden opportunity for Muslims and Christians in Canada to lead the way in effective interfaith dialogue. An understanding of the theologies and practices of charity in the Muslim and Christian faith traditions is a significant bridge that promises to lead to lasting peace, effective dialogue, and a joint working relationship with one another. If done properly, effective interfaith dialogue between the Christian and Muslim faith communities could potentially influence and change public policy for the alleviation of poverty within the broader communities they co-inhabit.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:169