Book Description

In these times of rising tensions between Christians and Muslims across the world, the need for harmony and peace has never been more urgent. As one of the world’s leading advocates of interfaith dialogue, Craig Considine introduces readers to the provocative idea of the Synthesis of Civilizations, a theory that pushes beyond dialogue to show where and how Western and Islamic civilizations have been – and continue to be – in a deeper union with one another. With an open mind and a deep appreciation of the Abrahamic tradition, Considine takes readers on a fascinating journey across history and the current state of Christian–Muslim relations in seven “battleground” regions of the world. Alongside the undeniable tensions between Christians and Muslims, the book presents and applies an interfaith community-building tool – DEUCE – focused on dialogue, education, understanding, commitment, and engagement. With unprecedented civilizational scope and sweeping sociological insight, Considine does full justice to the religious and social bonds between Christianity and Islam. While daily headlines highlight the shared fear, persecution, and violence experienced by Christians and Muslims worldwide, Beyond Dialogue is intended to inspire interfaith bridge builders who are passionate about defending and promoting civility, humanity, and pluralism on the world stage.