In a significant recognition of lifelong dedication to interfaith harmony, the Holy Father has officially appointed Rev Dr Patrick McInerney as a Consultor to the Commission for Religious Relations with Muslims at the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue in Rome. Fr Patrick has long been a leading voice in fostering relations between the Catholic Church and other faith traditions, particularly Islam.
Fr Patrick’s appointment follows decades of grassroots and academic leadership. For nearly 20 years, he has served as the Director of the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations (CCCMR) in Sydney.
Having spent two decades in missionary service in Pakistan and holding a doctorate in theology, Fr Patrick’s expertise is grounded in both lived experience and rigorous scholarship. In Australia, he has been a bridge-builder between the Diocese of Parramatta and various religious groups.
The Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue is the central office of the Holy See responsible for promoting mutual understanding and collaboration with followers of other religions. As a Consultor, Fr Patrick will provide advice to the Vatican on Christian-Muslim relations.
Fr Patrick elevation to this Roman office is a proud moment for the Columban Missionaries and the Australian Catholic community. His presence in Rome ensures that the insights gained from Australian multiculturalism will contribute to the universal Church’s mission of building a more fraternal world.
We ask for your prayers as Fr Patrick draws from his nearly 50 years of rich Columban missionary experience in Pakistan and Australia, commencing this new role this year. His reflections on the appointment are available here.
Related links
- Read more from the current Columban Interfaith eBulletin
