New Section “Christianity and Religions and Cultures of Africa”
Established at the Gregorian University

The establishment of the new section “Christianity and Religions and Cultures of Africa” within the Gregorian Centre for Interreligious Studies has been officially approved. The new section joins the two already existing programs — “Christianity and Islam” and “Christianity and Religions and Cultures of Asia” — further expanding the Centre’s educational and research offerings in the field of interreligious and intercultural studies.

The decision arises from the growing international attention toward the African continent and from the awareness of the need, both at the ecclesial and academic levels, to deepen reflection on the religious, cultural, and social transformations taking place in contemporary Africa.

The aim of the new section is to provide a space for interdisciplinary study and reflection on the relationships between Christianity, Islam, and African traditional religions, understood not merely as distinct religious phenomena, but as deeply interconnected elements within the cultural identity of the continent.

In many African contexts, Christianity and Islam coexist and develop within a cultural humus shaped by the presence of African traditional religions, which continue to influence symbols, practices, anthropological visions, and forms of community life,” explains Professor Ambrogio Bongiovanni, Director of the Centre. “The new section therefore intends to explore these dynamics through theological, philosophical, anthropological, and historical-cultural approaches.

The project immediately generated strong interest within the Society of Jesus and will involve the participation and collaboration of African Jesuit academic institutions, fostering a perspective of international exchange and cooperation.

Professor Bongiovanni continues: “Our intention is to promote the Gregorian as a place of encounter, dialogue, and shared research: an academic hub capable of connecting theological and cultural experiences emerging from Africa with the broader international context of university research. Among the initiatives already planned is an academic study trip to Africa scheduled for February 2027 at the Jesuit Hekima College. The experience, which will carry academic credit, will integrate courses and field activities, offering students direct engagement with the cultural and religious realities of the continent.

With this new section, the Pontifical Gregorian University strengthens its commitment to promoting intercultural and interreligious dialogue, offering a space for listening to and engaging with contemporary African theologies and cultures.