Religion & faith: There is hardly a topic that can divide people as much as religion. Couples with different religions have therefore often learned how to accept their better half. Most of the time at least. Some things though are harder to tolerate than others. For example, when it comes to children or marriage. In these cases, how can lovers overcome different religions?

Respect is the basis of every relationship - and an essential when different religions meet

Even if you belong to different religions, one thing must be there no matter what: mutual respect. Making fun of another person's faith, denigrating a religion or seeing it as less valuable than your own is a safe way into conflict - and definitely not into a happy relationship.

Faith is as individual as it is important. If we don't feel accepted in our faith & think we need to change, we often react to it with retreat, defense and insecurity. Therefore: In case of different religions, remember that you must never lose your mutual respect.

Questions for more understanding instead of conflict

We often argue because we feel misunderstood or, conversely, because we cannot understand what our counterpart is thinking. Even if that sounds banal: If we ask different questions, we get different answers. I have summarized a few questions that will help you to reconnect in this (German) video. If you can’t understand it, feel free to write a comment and I will translate the questions as soon as I see that you are interested in a translation.

By showing interest, you strengthen your relationship

Relationships in which different religions come together need strong nerves and an even stronger connection. From strangers to friends to family: outsiders have their own opinions and these can be quite unsettling. 

Therefore, it is essential to be able to rely on each other as a couple and to feel safe. If they show interest in the different holidays or even go to church services, this strengthens the feeling of solidarity. 

Btw, just because you show interest does not mean that you have to or want to convert. These little gestures are simply a sign that you are approaching each other.

Do not take religion too seriously 

That's why I also recommend a good portion of humor in addition to tolerance: What an exciting world, where two people with such different views are brought together to love each other? Probably just to set a good example and demonstrate that we can not only tolerate and accept our

differences, but even love and celebrate them. 

My name is Dr. Sharon Brehm and I offer systemic couple therapy and EFT couple therapy in Munich. My office for single and couple therapy is right in the center of Munich.

On my blog you will find all interessting thoughts about love and relationships: From interviews with other couple therapists, to information about emotions and relationship advice. Right now, I’m translating my articles step by step - if you are impatient, check the German version and have a look there :)

If you want to get to know me more, you can find me also on Instagram! If you prefer videos: I also have a few YouTube videos on my channel (though in German, but maybe this is the time to work on your language skills too ;) . You’d help me a lot, if you subscribe to it!

Photo credit: Kelly Sikkema via unsplash