What is an interfaith family?

Short answer

An interfaith family is one where partners hold different religious beliefs or come from different religious backgrounds, and it can include children raised with one, both or neither faith.

This term simply describes a household where the adults do not share the same religion. It does not say anything about how strictly anyone follows their faith, or whether the couple is married, civil partnered or living together.

Children in these families may grow up learning about more than one tradition. Some parents choose to raise their children in one faith, others expose them to both, and some wait until the children are older to let them choose. There is no right answer, and the best approach changes as your family grows.

You will often find that extended family and community members have strong opinions. Some will be supportive and eager to share their customs, while others may worry about what your children will believe. Kind but clear conversations help. You can say that your children will learn about both families, and that you will decide together how to proceed.

Many interfaith families find that shared values matter more than shared labels. Respect, honesty and care for others are common ground in almost every tradition, and they make a strong foundation for home life. If you need guidance on legal or ceremonial details, the register office or your place of worship can advise you.