For modern views on Godparenting
Click Here

What will I be committing myself to?

Before you make your decision, check what you will be required to say at the Christening/Baptism service. For service sheets go to Resources Page Click Here

C of E (Modern)

"Parents and godparents,the [child] whom you have brought for baptism depends chiefly on you for the help and encouragement [s/he] needs.
Are you willing to give it to [him/her] by your prayers, by your example, and by your teaching?"

Catholic

Celebrant: Do you reject Satan?
Parents and godparents: I do.
Celebrant: And all his works?
Parents and godparents: I do.
Celebrant: And all his empty promises?
Parents and godparents: I do.

What are your responsibilities as a Christian Godparent? Click Here

Does it matter if I am not much of a church-goer?

The Catholic Church has a requirement that at least one godparent should be a confirmed Catholic, but few other Churches have any strict requirements.

Many people find being asked to be a godparent a good opportunity to re-examine their own faith. Try talking to a priest / vicar about it.

It is not essential that you should have the same attitude towards the Church as the godchild's parents, but if you are in doubt, discuss it openly with them before you accept, so you know they are happy with your approach.

Do I have to be committed Christian? Click Here

Questions to ask yourself before agreeing to be a Godparent

• Are your views on religion, spirituality and morality similar to the child's parents?
  If they are, all well and good. If not, this need not be an obstacle: the parents may have chosen you because your views are different. But make sure the parents know your views and are happy with them before you decide to accept.
  
  
• Will you be around?
  Being a Godparent involves developing a relationship with the child and helping the parents in his/her spiritual upbringing. If you are about to emigrate to the other side of the world this will become very difficult. But it need not make it impossible. It is rather exotic to have a Godparent in Timbuktoo - especially to visit in their Gap year - but you will have to work that much harder to make the relationship work.
  
  
• Do you have an interest in the child's well-being?
  If you really cannot tolerate children maybe you should say so now rather than agreeing and then disappointing later. But bear in mind that many Godparents find they only really begin to establish a relationship with their Godchild when he/she reaches teenage or beyond.