“Harmony in Diversity: Promoting Religious Unity at the Grassroots in Kambaata, Tembaro and Halaba Zones of Ethiopia.”

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to examine the extent to which the ecumenism orreligious dialogue is addressed at the grassroots in the Kambaata, Tembaroand Halaba zones of Ethiopia. The study employed a mixed-methods research approach. The research’s target group consisted of religious leaders and followers from the Ethiopian zones of Kambaata, Tembaro, and Halaba. Of the 1,313,162 targeted population, 384 respondents were involved in the study. Of this sample, 72 were religious leaders, and 312 were religious adherents. The sample was selected using the cluster technique within the probability sampling and the non-probability sampling procedures. The study used structured and unstructured questionnaires, individual interview guides, and focus group discussion guides as data collection instruments.The results of the responses on attending ecumenical or religious dialogue show that a significant number of respondents have not engaged in any form of ecumenical or religious dialogue. Despite limited participation, there is a strong belief among respondents that ecumenical or religious dialogue can promote justice and peace. The researcher made several recommendations that, if implemented, will improve positive interfaith and interdenominational relations in the Kambaata, Tembaro, and Halaba zones of Ethiopia.