Intern Series- Working in a Multifaith Setting: 4 considerations to healthy interactions

The term Multifaith can be understood as a place where every person’s faith is integrated into the whole and adds to the environment. It is also important to remember that although the term “multifaith” includes the word “faith”, that should not exclude those who do not consider themselves to be a part of any faith. All people are, and must continue to be, included in multifaith environments and discussions. Everyone in the workplace must continuously acknowledge that someone’s faith, or lack thereof, does not exclude their ability to thrive in a multifaith environment. 

Visible and Invisible Identities

Unlike other components of a person’s cultural identity, one’s faith or worldview is not always something that can be observed physically. This can cause issues amongst peers if someone speaks or acts without considering the less visible parts of their colleagues’ identities. It is important for workplaces to make their employees aware of this reality, and to encourage them to work on their knowledge of faiths and differing worldviews. Encouraging that knowledge will lead to a more open and inclusive workplace.

Christianity in the work environment

When discussing multifaith workplaces, it is extremely important to remember that we live in a country where Christianity is the majority faith. This majority is important and impacts our work lives in many ways. The two holidays that many U.S. workplaces give paid time off for are: Christmas and Easter. People of other faith backgrounds may not have the same opportunities to celebrate their cultural holidays with paid time off. It is for this reason colleagues in the workplace must remember that although Christianity is the majority religion in our country, working in a multifaith environment means respecting the beliefs of all colleagues, and acknowledging the privilege that comes with being a part of the majority faith. This respect and acknowledgment of privilege does not take away the vitality of their own Christian faith.

Variance in Faith experience and expression 

Another part of being in an inclusive multifaith workplace, is remembering that everyone has experienced faith differently, and those variances cause their expressions of their faith or worldview to differ from their peer’s expressions. For some, their faith is one they have practiced since childhood. For others, they may have struggled with the faith they were raised in or may have converted to a different faith or worldview later in life. There are many reasons for this to vary from person to person, and everyone should be reminded that all expressions of faith and all experiences of faith are valid. Also, remember when people do choose to share about their own faith, they can and should only share what they are comfortable sharing. These variances in expression do not take away from the faith expression of others, rather they should help colleagues form a deeper understanding of the many ways faith can expressed and experienced.

Ask Questions Without Being Exhaustive

Being curious and inquisitive can often be a very fulfilling part of being in a multifaith workplace. When everyone is open to learning about their colleague’s faith, it contributes to an atmosphere that is safe and inclusive. However, this can become uncomfortable or exhausting if someone beliefs are trivialized or dismissed. While it is okay to be excited about learning about faiths that differ from your own, it is necessary to remember that those who differ from you are not there to educate you, especially in the workplace. This will help to keep the workplace feel like an inclusive environment.

Hailey Stephens is an publishing studies intern at Legacy Consulting & Research Group. Hailey is a student at Illinois Wesleyan University and aspires to work in the publishing industry upon graduation. Hailey has worked and volunteered in a variety of multifaith settings and is passionate about educating others about exhibiting cultural competence in th work environment.

Hailey Stephens