About the College of Interreligious Studies München
The College of Interreligious Studies München, founded by the NGO OCCURSO – Institute for Interreligious and Intercultural Encounters, is a globally unique institution that combines life learning, personal as well as religious and/or spiritual development and academic reflection in interfaith dialogue. 12 Students from all over the world with different cultural and religious backgrounds live together for one (or two) year(s) in a familiy-like, interfaith and intercultural community in the monastery of St. Bonifaz in the heart of Munich and share personal and academic experiences in a comprehensive and intensive program.
The College focuses on academic studies, peace-building through practical experience in interfaith dialogue, reflection, a variety of spiritual offerings, individual personal development and the acquisition of intercultural and interreligious skills. Students can also live in the college, which is located in the Benedictine Abbey of St. Boniface in the heart of Munich. The number of places available here is limited to ten.
In the light of current social and geopolitical developments worldwide, learning about interfaith skills is becoming increasingly important in contributing to a more harmonious and peaceful world. Therefore, the aim of this College is to enable participants to actively shape interreligious and intercultural (negotiation) processes both in theory and in practice. These skills are essential in order to reduce prejudice, overcome conflicts and create a more inclusive society based on mutual recognition and understanding. Today and in the future, the College aims to be a safe space for peace-building and reconciliation, where new relationships can be forged and trust is rebuilt. This is a lengthy and ongoing process to which the College contributes. The main concern is not a small one: knowledge of religious studies, interpretations skills, practicing and experiencing listening, interfaith experiences, relationship building and transforming knowledge into understanding will be the focus of this learning space for peace building in interfaith dialogue.