I thought this article about ways to handle differences in belief systems/religions was interesting. It really wasn't something I had thought about nor seen discussed much but I bet it does arise often when stepfamilies come together.

Blended families and ethnic groups mean that couples must learn to honor different traditions, lifestyles and preferences when they marry. The process begins with the wedding, when often more than one religious tradition and cultural style are incorporated.  Blending and fusing goes on for years, as your relationship develops and your family grows.  New couples must learn to accept and appreciate each other’s holiday celebrations, foods, and also the more subtle emotional style of each others’ family. One family may think being loving is exactly what the other family sees as terribly intrusive.  One partner may value sharing and intimacy, the other may value respect and privacy.  Blending these styles is not easy, but the rewards are great.  Couples may find they’re experiencing the “Disaster Equation:”

I love you the way I want to be loved + you love me the way you want to be loved = Neither feels loved, or appreciated for being loving.

Full article

Any experience of this or thoughts on it? Would you say the solutions sound workable or would you try another way?

I think it is a wonderful opportunity for your children as well, Nazreen.  I love the idea of being able to teach children about various beliefs, and it's even better when the parent can teach from experience.

My mom grew up southern baptist and my dad was catholic.  My mom grew up in a god-fearing religion and my dad even considered becoming a priest (good thing he changed his mind ).  Because both of them were brought up in strict religions, and because my mom had to agree to bring up her children in the catholic religion, they decided that after baptism, it was up to us to find the beliefs that we felt more closely described our own.  My dad taught me about the catholic religion and we went to church with his family.  And my mom taught us about the baptist beliefs that differed from what we were learning.  When I got older my dad also taught me about buddhism and I attended ceremonies with some of his buddhist friends.  I also attended church with mormon friends and learned a lot about their beliefs.  I met a jehovah's witness who had converted from another religion and we talked at length about their beliefs and differences from other denominations as well.  I found it all fascinating and loved learning! 

Today I am still very interested in learning about religion and customs from all over, I think it is simething I will always carry with me.

I've heard of family issues and some believed that they should follow the husband's religion because he is the man of the house and he has the say in everything. But then again like you said Kay, this will cause a huge blow up between both families. I guess it depends on the husband and wife's understanding between each other. If they agree on one religion, then they should stick with it.

 
As for our kids, there won't be any issue because they will be brought up as Muslims and my in-laws are understanding about it.

I guess it depends on the husband and wife's understanding between each other. If they agree on one religion, then they should stick with it.

Exactly my thoughts on it, Nazreen! It should be like everything else in a marriage. Once it's talked over and agreed upon, especially something as important as kids, that should be it done and dusted.

Thanks for the insights, Nazreen.