How to Make an Interfaith Marriage Work
Love is blind and does not take things such as faith into consideration. In fact, statistics have revealed that the percentage of interfaith marriage is growing, which clearly shows that people are beginning to accept each other for what they are instead of letting the religion come between them.
Making an interfaith marriage work requires a fair amount of communication, understanding and sincere commitment. Since faith plays a huge role in how people live and interact with each other, it cannot be completely ignored. However, a couple can stay together despite a difference in their traditions, beliefs and background if they learn to respect each other’s faith and learn to make compromises.
Instructions
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1
One of the most important things that you need to do in order to make an interfaith marriage work is to acknowledge and talk about the differences. Ignoring the fact that you two have different beliefs when it comes to God would not make the difference disappear or make it any less significant. You are bound to find yourself addressing the issue at some point in your married life, e.g. after having kids. It is best to talk about these differences in advance and talk about the expectations that you both have of each other. It is also important to discuss the faith in which you want the children to be raised. Presenting them with both the faiths and allowing them to choose is an option as well.
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2
If you and your spouse are struggling to deal with the difference or have reached an impasse, it is best to take the matter to a professional such as a marriage counsellor. Marriage counselling will guide you to understand each other better and work together to building a strong foundation for your marriage.
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3
Respect the beliefs of your significant other. It was their very faith that made them into a person that you fell in love with. Therefore, respect their faith instead of trying to impose your own beliefs on them.
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4
Learn about your partner’s faith. You may think you know them very well, but if you do a bit of research on their beliefs, traditions, values and background, you will find yourself learning even more about the person you love.
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5
If you know any other interfaith married couple, talk to them about their experience and learn from them how they are coping with it. Ask them about the challenges that they had to face and how they got through them.
