How to Celebrate the Holidays in an Interfaith Marriage

Posted by Anonymous , 9/5/2007 Tags:CelebrateHolidaysInterfaithMarriage
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How to Celebrate the Holidays in an Interfaith Marriage

Introduction

The holiday season is a wonderful time for most families. But for the 40,000 couples who enter into interfaith marriages each year, along with the joy often comes lots of controversy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Steps

1

Step One

Look for common elements in your different beliefs, and incorporate these similarities into your holiday celebrations.
2

Step Two

Take the time to learn about your partner's religion and to participate in those ceremonies or rituals that hold meaning for him or her.
3

Step Three

Ask lots of questions so you can understand why these traditions are important to your mate.
4

Step Four

Help your children understand both of your holidays, no matter which religion they follow.
5

Step Five

Create your own special traditions as a couple. They could be a blending of things you have both done in the past, or they could be new things you explore together for the first time.
6

Step Six

Be sensitive to the fact that celebrating the holidays at your parents' house could be awkward for your partner. Explain what to expect before you go, and help to put him or her at ease as much as possible.
7

Step Seven

Be willing to reciprocate. If your spouse is willing to attend a religious service with you, offer to attend one with him or her. Talk about your impressions afterward.
8

Step Eight

Remember to treat your different backgrounds as assets, not obstacles. You both bring special traditions to the marriage, and these can make your celebrations together even richer.

Tips & Warnings

  • Remember that it is up to you as a couple to determine how you will celebrate the holidays. Don't let your parents make your decisions for you. Only you know what feels right for the two of you.
  • Enjoy trying something new. Perhaps as a child, you always wanted to have a Christmas tree or light a menorah. Now is your chance to do it all.
  • Talk about your differences; don't sweep them under the rug. The holidays can be a catalyst to raise issues that you have been thinking about and find out how you both feel about them.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • Christmas Stockings
  • Family Photographs
  • Telephone Calling Cards
  • Candles
  • Dreidels
  • Christmas Tree Ornaments
  • Christmas Trees
  • Menorahs
Tools: |