by Todd Daigneault

Created on: August 30, 2009   Last Updated: October 07, 2009

What used to be euphemistically and sometimes derogatorially referred to as "mixed-marriages" are now fairly commonplace. Old racist beliefs, racial stereotypings and profilings are now far less commonplace in a far more enlightened and evolved society. As each subsequent generation comes and goes, the racism ebbs further and further until a point of non-existence. With a virtual explosion of different races mixing, comes many mixed children, blessed and enlightened to have from both different ethnic backgrounds in their gene pools. But there should be things known before marrying outside your ethnic background-not out of the old beliefs and stereotypes-but things culturally as well.

Raising the children in which parent's belief may come to mind by one or the other parent. If the mother is Jewish and the father is Irish-Catholic, is the child necessarily completely Jewish because of ancient Hebrew Talmudic laws? There are many examples of Jews and Christians marrying, after all society has become far more secular and less clinging to ancient beliefs. How does an Irish-Catholic father of the child rationalize his child being raised Jewish? Does that make him feel like his contribution was just to bring the child into the world, never mind what he wants to raise his child as. In many of these cases, either the child is raised Jewish, with no religion, or a kind blending of the both. After all, Christianity and most other religions embrace the concept of a sole creator and all humanity being its divine creation.

There can be a healthy mix of both beautiful religions: Judaism and Christianity. But it is something that can become a huge concern, especially with both sides of the family intervening to protect their tribal traditions. A kind compromise may be very necessary out of respect for both sides. There's also cases of Muslims and Jews marrying and Christians and Muslims marrying. Something that both partners should have a clear talk about before marriage-so no potentially vicious arguments flare up. We live in a pretty evolved society, but arguments and discord over religious upbringing can still happen. A clear plan is needed, If the mother is Jewish, the child can still go through the ancient tribal rituals like circumcisions and bar mitzvahs, while celebrating Christmas and learning about Christ. After all, the Jews don't believe that Christ did not exist.

A healthy respect for both parent's religions in a kind of a fusion for the child is an excellent

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