
The Brian Lehrer Show Reflections on Interfaith Holiday Traditions
Dec 12, 2025
Jessica Grose, an opinion writer at The New York Times, shares insights from her experience raising children in an interfaith household. She candidly discusses her initial worries about teaching her daughters religion amidst a dominant culture. Jessica highlights how their preferences evolved family traditions and emphasizes the importance of cultural appreciation. Listeners contribute with their own unique rituals, showcasing how diverse practices can blend into heartwarming family celebrations. The conversation reveals that traditions can adapt — there's no need to finalize them too soon!
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Early Doubts Give Way To Kids' Preferences
- When her children were preschoolers, Jessica worried they couldn't yet give feedback about faith and rituals.
- She later found, as they grew, they developed clear preferences and the household blended practices successfully.
Intentionally Teach Less-Dominant Traditions
- Be intentional about teaching minority traditions so kids don't only absorb the cultural default.
- Balance that intention by including the other parent's cultural moments so the household feels inclusive.
Birthday Replaces Christmas Tradition
- Mari converted to Judaism but missed Christmas traditions like red velvet cake from her uncle's birthday.
- Her family now celebrates their daughter's December 24th birthday with red velvet cake instead of Christmas.
