Who are the Godparents?

"Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ's Body the Church. The bond which God establishes in Baptism is indissoluble...Each candidate for Holy Baptism is to be sponsored by one or more baptized persons. Sponsors of adults and older children present their candidates and their intention to support them by prayer and example in their Christian life. Sponsors of infants, commonly called godparents, present their candidates, make promises in their own names, and also take vows on behalf of their candidates. It is fitting that parents be included among the godparents of their own children. Parents and godparents are to be instructed in the meaning of Baptism, in their duties to help the new Christians grow in the knowledge and love of God, and in their responsibilities as members of His Church."

-Book of Common Prayer, p. 298

 

Too often there is confusion about the role of godparents. Some believe that godparents take responsibility for raising the child if something tragic happens to the parents. Others believe that being a godparent is simply an honorary title that affords them a front-row seat on the day of the baptism.

 

In actuality, the role of godparent is a sacred trust between those being baptized, the parents of the baptized if the baptized is an infant and the godparent(s) themselves. Godparents should be chosen for their moral character and upright living. Godparents are to be an example through their faithful way of life to God and His Church. Godparents and parents work in collaboration with one another and the Holy Spirit to ensure that the child is provided with the necessary instruction, counsel, guidance and example so that they may grow into Christ's love without delay.

 

 

When choosing a godparent, choose them after much prayerful consideration and never out of familial obligation. The newly baptized Christian deserves role models who will be an example, not of perfection, but of fidelity to Christ and His Church, the People of God.