Love Across Beliefs
A collection of 11 stories of people navigating the challenges of interfaith relationships within Singapore's multicultural society.
Navigating the Challenges of Interfaith Relationships
Editor: Francois Bretault
Publisher: Centre for Interfaith Understanding (Singapore)
ISBN: 978-981-94-1633-2
Length: 130 pages, softback
The book presents authentic, first-hand accounts of how faith shapes relationships, the obstacles couples face and the ways they negotiate family, identity and community.
Stories, connection and support.
Interfaith marriages on the rise
The archive frames interfaith relationships as an increasingly visible part of Singapore's multicultural society.
Hopes & struggles
Personal narratives show the complexity behind conversion, compromise, family expectations and communication.
Connection & support
The project aims to help readers recognise themselves and understand the experiences of others.
Resource & data points
The book is presented as a resource for deeper discussion of interfaith relationships.
Photos from the launch
BOOK ON SALE
Title: Love Across Beliefs - Navigating the Challenges of Interfaith Relationships Editor: Francois Bretault Publisher: Centre for Interfaith Understanding (Singapore) ISBN: 978-981-94-1633-2 No. of pages: 130 (soft back)
Professor of Interreligious Studies
S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
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ABOUT THE BOOK
Love Across Beliefs delves into the fascinating world of interfaith relationships within Singapore's multicultural society. This book presents a rich tapestry of personal narratives that shed light on the joys, challenges, and invaluable lessons that emerge from loving someone of a different faith. Through authentic, first-hand accounts, the book explores the daily realities of interfaith couples, examining how faith shapes their relationships, the primary obstacles they face, and the strategies they employ to bridge their differences. These stories, minimally edited to preserve their authenticity, offer a candid glimpse into the unique dynamics of interfaith marriages. Singapore, with its vibrant multicultural fabric, serves as a backdrop for these compelling tales of love transcending religious boundaries. From the bustling streets of Little India to the heartlands of Ang Mo Kio, interfaith couples navigate a complex terrain shaped by legal frameworks, religious doctrines, and societal expectations. Despite the challenges, their stories reveal the resilience and strength that come from embracing diversity and fostering mutual understanding. This book is not a prescriptive guide. It is a mosaic of experiences, each reflecting the author's unique voice. By sharing these narratives, the book aims to promote empathy, foster dialogue, and provide support for those navigating the complexities of interfaith relationships.
WHY THIS BOOK?
Interfaith Marriages on the Rise
According to Singapore's Department of Statistics in 2022, 1 out of 3 marriages in Singapore are interfaith unions. Therefore, it is already part of our multi-religious and multi-cultural landscape.
Hopes, Struggles and Aspirations
Featuring stories of actual people living in an interfaith relationship can shed light on hopes, struggles and aspirations for others to be inspired or learn from.
Connections and Support
These stories can provide heartfelt connections to those who are in interfaith relationships, and show that there are avenues for support.
Resource and data points
The stories can be a useful resource and data points for policy-makers and researchers looking into the subject of interfaith relationships.