Ability to live together aim of religious dialogue

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University of Otago marketing student Nurul Abdul (22) shares aspects of her Muslim religion with fellow students at the Christian-Muslim Interfaith Dialogue. Photo by Peter McIntosh.

Muslims and Christians sat sat and prayed together during the second annual Christian-Muslim Interfaith Dialogue at the University of Otago Union Hall in Dunedin yesterday.

University chaplain the Rev Greg Hughson said the event was held as part of Islam Awareness Week and allowed representatives of both religions to share their faith and understanding.

"This is a time to learn, a time to listen and a time for respect, because all here are speaking from the very core of their being.

"This is not a debate. The goal is to accept that the differences exist and to try to live together."

Four Christian and four Muslim representatives spoke to an audience of about 100 people about their perspectives on the concept of God, the role of scripture, the role of women, and sin and forgiveness.

Mr Hughson was delighted with the event and believed those there were privileged.

"In many countries, organising an event like this would be very difficult."

He hoped the event would be held again next year.