Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Religion & Culture / Religious Studies

Faculty/School

Faculty of Arts

First Advisor

Not Applicable

Advisor Role

Not Applicable

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the dynamics between an interfaith dialogue group and its community. While interfaith dialogue is used for various reasons, I will study how Interfaith Grand River (IGR) deals with issues of religion in Canadian society through their monthly discussions. IGR began in September 2001 as an initiative to ensure different religious adherents in the Kitchener/Waterloo and surrounding area could meet regularly to discuss different faith topics and develop relationships. IGR serves as an illustration to compliment the theoretical works on the limits and possibilities of dialogue. Data on IGR has been derived through participant observation and interviews which is complimented by a literature study. In order to understand the multifaith context of North America Diana Eck provides insight into the challenges pluralistic endeavors face. Gadamer, Abu-Nimer, and Panikkar provide the philosophical backdrop from which to answer the research question: what are the limits and possibilities of interfaith dialogue? Through this analysis the intent is to address concerns of religious diversity in Kitchener/Waterloo and the degree to which interfaith dialogue can positively impact its participants and the community at large.

Convocation Year

2010

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