Monday, April 18, 2011

Making Interfaith Marriages Work

A 2008 study from the Pew Research Center revealed that 27 percent of married or cohabitating Americans are in mixed-faith relationships.

I am not an expert on this topic, but I have had the privilege of watching two close friends make marriage work while creating a Jewish-Christian household.

So, in honor of the Christian Holy Week and Jewish Seder, I'm sharing this article on "talking points" for interfaith couples who are engaged.

Are you comfortable practicing your religion on your own, or do you want your spouse to come with you?, and Are you okay with religious symbols being present in your home? are two of the questions the author encourages couples to discuss.

One step further - it's important for interfaith couples to talk about how they want to raise their children: as part of both religions? How will your in-laws, and the wider faith-community respond to this?

As I've witnessed in my friend's marriage, having one foot firmly planted in Judaism, and the other foot dipping into Christianity can work. It can actually enhance the relationship. But it takes an increased level of intentionality and a belief (dare we call it faith?) that compromise is worthwhile.

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