“The future of humanity depends on our ability to recognize ourselves as brothers and sisters, children of the same God.”
— Nostra Aetate, 1965
A Historic Moment of Openness and Understanding
Sixty years ago, in 1965, the Second Vatican Council ushered in a new era of interreligious relations through the promulgation of Nostra Aetate — The Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non-Christian Religions.
For the first time, the Catholic Church officially acknowledged the shared moral and spiritual values of other faiths, laying the foundation for mutual respect, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.
Nostra Aetate invited the world to move beyond prejudice, to appreciate diversity, and to work together for the common good. It transformed the landscape of interfaith engagement — a transformation still unfolding today.
Revisiting Nostra Aetate in the African Context
Africa’s religious landscape is a tapestry of deep faith traditions — Christian, Muslim, Hindu, and indigenous alike. While rich and vibrant, it is also marked by social and political tensions that challenge unity.
In this setting, the message of Nostra Aetate rings especially true: diversity is not a barrier, but a blessing. It calls us to listen deeply, to engage respectfully, and to foster understanding across lines of difference.
As the world marks the 60th anniversary of this transformative declaration, Harmony Institute stands proudly with our partners in reflecting on its continued relevance and power to unite.
Harmony Institute’s Ongoing Commitment
Since our founding in 2014, Harmony Institute has embodied the principles of Nostra Aetate — promoting dialogue, peace, and community building through inclusive programs and partnerships.
Our initiatives — from Scriptural Reasoning sessions and interfaith dialogues to community outreach, educational workshops, and capacity-building programs — create safe spaces for people of all faiths to connect, learn, and collaborate.
Through these efforts, we affirm a simple but profound truth: that peace begins when we meet not as strangers, but as fellow seekers of understanding.
Nostra Aetate @ 60: A Shared Reflection
In October 2025, the Center for Interfaith Studies in Africa (CISA) at Hekima University College convened scholars, faith leaders, and peace practitioners for the conference “Nostra Aetate at 60: Fostering Interfaith Dialogue in Africa.”
Keynote speaker Prof. Francis X. Clooney, SJ — a renowned scholar of Hindu-Christian relations — invited participants to reflect on the continuing impact of Nostra Aetate through three key themes:
Reflecting on the Legacy of Nostra Aetate — exploring six decades of theological, pastoral, and practical influence.
Promoting Interfaith Collaboration — highlighting peacebuilding, education, and community development.
Addressing Contemporary Challenges — confronting extremism, discrimination, and religious manipulation with dialogue and cooperation.
This gathering, and others like it, reaffirm the enduring value of Nostra Aetate as a guiding light for interreligious engagement across Africa.
Carrying the Vision Forward
At Harmony Institute, we believe Nostra Aetate is not merely a historical document — it is a living invitation.
It challenges us to build societies grounded in respect, justice, and mutual understanding, where diversity is celebrated rather than feared.
In a world often divided by ideology and identity, interfaith dialogue remains our strongest bridge toward peace. Guided by the spirit of Nostra Aetate, we renew our commitment to advance social cohesion, empower communities, and inspire hope through meaningful encounter.
Join the Journey
As we celebrate this milestone, we invite all — scholars, faith leaders, young people, and community partners — to join us in carrying forward the vision of Nostra Aetate.
Together, we can transform dialogue into action, and action into lasting peace.
