In the world today, interfaith families and couples are becoming more of a growing trend. An interfaith family occurs when members of the family belong to different faiths, or religions. This can happen through an interfaith marriage, or when specific members of a family choose to follow a different religion than the rest of their family.
Just as with any family, prayer and prayer books can be an important part of the lives of interfaith families. Although each person will say the prayers of their particular faith, there are prayer books that are geared toward the needs of the interfaith family. The following is a list of some choices in which you, or someone you know, may be interested.
God Has No Religion: Blending Traditions for Prayer- Frances Sheridan Goulart
A diverse collection of prayers from various faiths and traditions. Each chapter is devoted to a certain type of prayer such as mantras, blessings and litanies. Prayers are also included for specific purposes such as healing the earth and prayers for animals. This deeply spiritual book is an excellent choice for interfaith families and those wishing to learn the prayer practices of different faiths.
Life Prayers: From Around the World: 365 Prayers, Blessings, and Affirmations to Celebrate the Human Journey- Elizabeth Roberts and Elias Amidon
A rich anthology of prayers, wisdom, poetry and blessings from around the world. This book is a celebration of the cycles of life, as well as finding hope amid the struggles we encounter. Includes writings from influential people such as Martin Luther King, Japanese verse, Native American prayers and much more.
The Soul’s Almanac- A Year of Interfaith Stories, Prayers and Wisdom- Aaron Zerah
More than simply a prayer book, A Soul’s Almanac is a collection of quotes, readings and parables that have been selected from a variety of world faiths. Altogether, there are 365 readings, one for each day of the year, and each is an example of the wisdom and truths contained within these cultures and faiths. Containing Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu and Native American writings, along with many others, this book is something that can be enjoyed by an individual or an entire family.
For Children and Teens
How the Children Became Stars: A Family Treasury of Stories, Prayers and Blessings from Around the World- Aaron Zerah
A beautiful compilation of 52 tales from around the world that explore the wisdom of various spiritual traditions. Subjects of the stories range from Angels, goddesses, an aboriginal hero, the Zoroastrian Noah, and much more. Each captivating tale comes with activities, questions, a meal blessing and a family prayer.
Teen Sunshine Reflections: Words for the Heart and Soul- June Cotner
A refreshing compilation of prayers, poems and reflections that address the many challenges faced by teens. This interfaith book contains poems written by teens, as well as writings by such notable people as Mother Teresa, Mahatma Gandhi, Sitting Bull and Anne Frank. A well organized, positive and thought provoking book that touches on subjects such as forgiveness, love, relationships, tolerance and one’s relationship with God.
These books can help enrich the interfaith experience for you and your family. You can find these books online on such sites as Amazon, or Barnes & Noble, or you may be able to order them at your local bookstore.
Further Reading
Celebrate the Holidays- Tips for Interfaith Families
