Founding Dean Mouhanad Khorchide talks about the work at the new faculty

The Koran is also the starting point at the University of Münster from which Islamic theology is thought, researched and taught. © Uni MS - Linus Peikenkamp

"We want to develop an Islamic theology that takes responsibility for Europe"

Islamic theology in Germany will mark a milestone in summer 2026 when the Centre for Islamic Theology (CIT) becomes an independent faculty at the University of Münster. Not only will this provide the discipline with new structure, but also greater visibility and influence. Kathrin Kottke spoke with Professor Mouhanad Khorchide about what this means for the University and society.

The CIT was established 14 years ago and has since become internationally renowned. Why does it need to be reconstituted as its own faculty now?

Because it's more than just a structural change. It sends a strong signal of recognition. From an institutional standpoint, this places Islamic theology on equal footing with Catholic and Protestant theology. For many Muslims in Germany, this is an important step. And in practical terms, it means that we will have our own doctoral and postdoctoral rights, can independently develop academic profiles and make decisions on our own.

You speak of being on equal footing. Does this also apply to self-determination within the University?

Yes, very much so. Until now, we were integrated into larger structures where others made decisions on our behalf. In the future, we will have our own committees, bear responsibility and shape things ourselves. This will have an impact on not only internal processes but also our self-image.

If you had to describe the new faculty in one sentence, what would it be?

A faculty that develops Islamic theology while bearing responsibility for Europe.

That sounds programmatic. What does "responsibility for Europe" mean exactly in the day-to-day work of research and teaching?

We do not view Islam in isolation, but within the context of society. Our students grapple with questions that directly affect them. How can religious convictions be reconciled with democratic values? What role do freedom and plurality play in religious self-understanding? We want a theology that offers guidance - not by retreating into one's bubble but rather engaging in dialogue.

Professor Mouhanad Khorchide © Uni MS - Linus Peikenkamp Do you mean to say that theology should become more involved in social debates?

Absolutely. Theology must not take place in the so-called "ivory tower". It must engage, challenge and explain. When it comes to Islam, there are many prejudices and misunderstandings. If we do not get involved, we leave the field to other voices.

Critics say that Islamic theology is being reduced too much to the topic of integration.

That is a legitimate concern. Many do not want Islamic theology to be instrumentalised and seen solely as a tool for integration. Rather, we want - like Catholic and Protestant theology - to research and teach freely. Integration is an important side effect, but not our primary mission.

And yet your work is having an impact precisely there.

Yes, because a reflective theology provides guidance. When students say they no longer have to choose between being German and Muslim, that demonstrates its social relevance. It's about experiencing belonging not as a contradiction, but as a matter of course.

You once described yourself as being "caught between two chairs."

That was the case for a long time. There was mistrust from various quarters - from within the Muslim community and the general public. Some asked whether the "right" Islam was being taught at the University of Münster, while others expressed concern that the influence of Islam in Germany might increase. Our task has been to take these concerns seriously and to work transparently.

Have such views changed in the meantime?

Yes, fortunately. The discussions have become more nuanced. Many people realise that we want to discuss matters objectively and be self-critical. Trust has grown, even though there are, of course, still critical voices - and those are part of the process.

Were there any particular moments that have influenced you in recent years?

There have been many. One example is the international recognition we've seen in the form of visits, discussions and interest from various countries. We've had visits from high-ranking politicians, such as former German Federal President Joachim Gauck, who was very interested in interfaith dialogue and welcomed the founding of the CIT at the time. Other defining moments were when, after an event, someone came up to me and said, "Now I understand Islam differently."

And what about the difficult experiences?

The constant explaining, the repetition and the reservations can be exhausting. You are repeatedly put in situations where you have to justify yourself. But I've learned to see that as part of the process.

What motivated you to keep going during those phases?

First and foremost, the students. When I see how grateful many of them are because their studies have given them a new perspective, that gives me new strength. The CIT team is a close-knit bunch, almost like a family. That also gives me support.

You once mentioned that you hardly ever take breaks.

For many years, I've taken very little holiday, let alone a semester off. But I don't find that burdensome. On the contrary. It is a privilege to work on something that is socially relevant and, in the best case, brings about change.

What were the biggest structural challenges when establishing the faculty?

First of all, building the field itself. Islamic theology is a relatively new academic discipline, so there are not yet enough young scholars. In addition, many professorships had to be advertised multiple times to meet our high standards of quality.

In terms of content, what kind of changes would you like to see for the faculty?

The classical disciplines are well covered, but there is potential for expansion. A stronger focus on Islamic mysticism, for example, would be important. Interdisciplinary approaches, such as a sociological perspective on Islam in Europe, should also be further strengthened. This connection between Islamic theology and reality is of central importance.

How will the University change with the new faculty?

It will certainly strengthen the University's profile as a place of theological diversity. Having three theological disciplines in one location opens up special opportunities for exchange and cooperation. At the same time, we need the trust of the University administration. Especially when we engage in controversial debates.

You deliberately talk of controversies...

Theology thrives on debate - in the best sense of the word. Tolerating different perspectives and using them constructively is part of academic work. This also applies to interreligious dialogue.

Are there concrete examples of such dialogue formats?

We are currently developing new formats outside of traditional courses that promote interaction. One example is interreligious projects in which students organise activities together. The goal is not just to talk about one another, but to talk directly to each other.

Is there a specific event coming up?

In cooperation with the professional football club Preussen Münster, we would like to organise a football tournament this summer for students and staff in the Faculties of Catholic, Protestant and Islamic Theology as well as Sport and Exercise Sciences, but also other students. An accompanying programme of music, sports and culinary highlights is intended to attract many spectators.

Projects like these have made you a prominent figure in Münster. How do you experience this public role?

People often approach me on the bus or on the street, sometimes when I'm in a bit of a hurry. There's a lot of interest. That's gratifying, even if it's sometimes exhausting.

The big day is coming up in a few weeks. How will the official founding be celebrated this summer?

For me, it will mainly be a day of gratitude. I am grateful to my parents, my team, and the entire University. Because no one achieves something like this alone. That is why, on this day, we want to collectively honour the journey we've taken so far - a path that hasn't always been easy.

What do you hope people will say when they look back on this moment ten years from now?

I hope they say, "That was the beginning of a theology that builds bridges." Toward a responsible, compassionate and open Islam that is perceived as a natural part of Europe.

This article first appeared in the University newspaper wissen|leben, issue 3, 6 May 2026.

Further information

• Centre for Islamic Theology
• The May issue of the university newspaper as a PDF (in German)
• All issues of the university newspaper at a glance