LOVE FOR ALL: Inter-Faith Love

Practicing What You Preach

Our faith often dictates our morals, values, and even our lifestyles. So what happens when you fall in love with someone that grew up with a different faith? Inter-faith relationships have become more common as the stigma against them has slowly fallen, but they still come with an adjustment period for couples and their families.

Most inter-faith couples will agree that their different respective religions don’t pose a problem. In fact, they encourage each half of the couple to expand their horizons and learn about each other’s faiths. While some people may decide to convert to their partner’s religion, many inter-faith couples adapt to a life that incorporates elements of both religions. After all, the core principles of most religions are the same: to treat others with kindness, love, and acceptance.

The Best Of Both Worlds

Many inter-faith couples learn to practice both religions in their household. While individual partners may carry on praying or attending services in the traditional manner of their respective religions, they often partake in the major celebrations of both faiths. Most couples will agree this is the highlight of their inter-faith relationship; there’s always something to celebrate!

Christians can learn about the sense of community and humbleness that Muslims feel when participating in Ramadan, while Muslims get to enjoy the warmth and quality family time associated with Christmas. Buddhists may learn to revel in the vibrancy of Holi and the bright lights of Diwali, while Hindus can enjoy the serenity of Parinirvana Day.

Children of inter-faith couples are often raised as members of both faiths. This increases their levels of compassion, and makes for a lively childhood filled with a diverse range of festivities and traditions. As a result, inter-faith parents tend to be more supportive of children exploring their own path. Whether it comes to the child’s religion or career goals, inter-faith parents know that there are so many different paths that will lead their children to happiness and success.

Understanding The Bigger Picture

Many outsiders believe that the opposing beliefs inter-faith couples may cause conflict within the relationship, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Studies have shown that inter-faith couples are often better at communicating with each other, especially about important issues. Some couples believe that this is because they went into their relationship knowing that they would have to work around their religious differences, so other big topics became easier to handle. Inter-faith couples have some of the best foundations for working through any obstacles that life may throw their way!

Others believe that being with someone of another faith may weaken one’s ties to their own faith, but this is just another myth. Many inter-faith couples confirm that their partner’s devotion to their own faith is an excellent source of inspiration. Couples are able to come together and see the big picture in any religion. Any great relationship will inspire you to become the best version of yourself. An inter-faith relationship will just give you more options to get there.

Being in an inter-faith relationship might make you question your own faith, but it certainly won’t disrupt it. Couples will agree that being in an inter-faith relationship means opening yourself up to a beautifully diverse and inspiring life.

Love is a divine force, like the higher powers we believe in.

Embrace love in all of its glory, with whoever your heart leads you to!

Writer: Maria Polansky