Jewish Holidays for Interfaith Families

"Jewish Holidays for Interfaith Families" by Rachel Adlerstone offers guidance for households navigating Jewish observances alongside other religious traditions, secular relatives, or differing levels of knowledge. This resource provides accurate Jewish context and practical tools for conversation, without advocating for a blended universal calendar. It prioritizes establishing family values and boundaries, and identifying community relationships that will support the household's approach to holidays. The author's method focuses on fostering a coherent family life through knowledge, honesty, and respect for religious differences.

The book addresses year-round scenarios, including invitations, gifts, food, worship practices, interactions with grandparents, children’s questions, and public school events, as well as overlapping holiday seasons. It outlines meaningful supportive roles for non-Jewish partners without requiring imitation of Jewish practices. Chapters dedicated to specific holidays such as Passover, the High Holidays, Hanukkah, Purim, Shavuot, and Sukkot, along with quieter observances, identify central elements, variations, and areas requiring local guidance. It also includes scripts to assist adults in resolving disagreements without burdening children. Planning sections help families define their chosen traditions distinctly from broader claims about Judaism.