Interfaith relationships bring some unique
challenges that arise when mixing different customs,
traditions and family expectations.
A Jew may be uncomfortable eating ham the spouse's family Easter dinner. A Gentile may be bewildered by all the Hebrew and davening (bowing) in a synagogue service. One spouse may take religious customs or family traditions more seriously than the other. What does a Jew do if his spouse believes in Jesus?
A challenge is when you are planning a social event with the “non-Jewish” side of the family. Some compromises will have to be made, but you need to stand strong in your beliefs – remember, the children are watching. If your non-Jewish relatives are spending the winter holidays with you, should you let them bring a small Christmas tree to put in the guest room?
Especially if you have heated discussions on religious topics, keep the lines of communication open. If you have a particular opinion or belief, try to understand where it comes from.
Does it come from human tradition or the Bible? When challenges come, you need to find a basis for a s a united front.
Even if you think you have discussed “all” the issues about your Interfaith relationship before marriage, things will change. What happens when a boy is born, will you have a brit milah (circumcision) service, a baptism or baby dedication? What will you do if you move? Would it make sense to check out a synagogue or a church to meet people and explore your faith? What if a loved one dies? Will you have a wake or sit shivah?
Do you think the two of you would benefit from discussing these issues with other Interfaith couples? One particularly helpful way to explore these issues is the "Joined Together" video we recommend in which several Jewish and non-Jewish spouses talk about how they have found life together. We would be glad to arrange an evening to watch the "Joined Together" video and have a discussion with refreshments. Interested?
A Jew may be uncomfortable eating ham the spouse's family Easter dinner. A Gentile may be bewildered by all the Hebrew and davening (bowing) in a synagogue service. One spouse may take religious customs or family traditions more seriously than the other. What does a Jew do if his spouse believes in Jesus?
A challenge is when you are planning a social event with the “non-Jewish” side of the family. Some compromises will have to be made, but you need to stand strong in your beliefs – remember, the children are watching. If your non-Jewish relatives are spending the winter holidays with you, should you let them bring a small Christmas tree to put in the guest room?
Especially if you have heated discussions on religious topics, keep the lines of communication open. If you have a particular opinion or belief, try to understand where it comes from.
Does it come from human tradition or the Bible? When challenges come, you need to find a basis for a s a united front.
Even if you think you have discussed “all” the issues about your Interfaith relationship before marriage, things will change. What happens when a boy is born, will you have a brit milah (circumcision) service, a baptism or baby dedication? What will you do if you move? Would it make sense to check out a synagogue or a church to meet people and explore your faith? What if a loved one dies? Will you have a wake or sit shivah?
Do you think the two of you would benefit from discussing these issues with other Interfaith couples? One particularly helpful way to explore these issues is the "Joined Together" video we recommend in which several Jewish and non-Jewish spouses talk about how they have found life together. We would be glad to arrange an evening to watch the "Joined Together" video and have a discussion with refreshments. Interested?