Interfaith Marriage

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I grew up spending the holidays lighting a menorah, playing dreidel and making latkes. My husband spent the holidays decorating a Christmas tree and making cookies. We both attended religious schools and grew up in somewhat religious households. Interfaith marriage was historically looked upon with very strong disfavor by religious leaders. Today, interfaith marriage is prevalent around the world. You can’t help who you fall in love with, right?

We had many discussions about our religion and upbringing before having children.  However, the dynamic and feelings change once your children are born and the holidays roll around. We have tried to find ways to incorporate the best of both traditions into our family. We decided to celebrate both holidays and enjoy having a holiday tree and menorah in our household through the month of December. What lucky kids…

 The holidays tend to bring religious choices into focus and it is important to discover ways to make it an exciting time. There is no right or wrong way to celebrate because every family situation is unique. It is important to try different approaches and find what works for your family.

We have been successful and my husband is now the Latke making master every holiday season. We visit Christmas light displays, enjoy holiday parties and engage in Hanukkah celebrations at school and with our friends.

Two of our favorite books we read with our children every holiday season are:

My Two Holidays: A Hanukkah and Christmas Story by Danielle Novack

Daddy Christmas and Hanukkah Mama by Selina Alko

Our kids will grow up with strong values no matter what. Watching their excitement during the holiday season means more to us than anything. We will continue to grow as an interfaith family and share our experiences with you.