Principles of Interreligious Dialogue: Bridging a Relations Gap Between the Roman Catholic Church and the Zimbabwean State

Abstract

Conflict is a reality of life. It seems to characterize the daily order of the world today. Africa and Zimbabwe in particular are no exceptions. Almost every facet of social life is caught up in conflict and violence in religious, social, and political spheres, among other aspects of daily living.1 This article aims to demonstrate how the principles of interreligious dialogue (IRD) may assist in bridging the relations gap between the Roman Catholic Church and the Zimbabwean state. To achieve this aim, the writer will begin by defining key terms followed by a brief discussion on dialogue. Thereafter, the author will show how the ten principles of IRD according to Leonardo Swidler may assist in resolving the conflict between the aforementioned parties. Eventually, the writer will give a critique and draw a conclusion that through the pedagogical, informative, and personal aspects of the principles of IRD the relational gap between
the Catholic Church and the state would be narrowed down.