The Role of Godparents

We have just finished celebrating the Feast of the Epiphany of Jesus and memorialized his baptism by John the Baptist. This very moment helps us recognize various theological and human dimensions that seem to be overlooked. 

We were once brought to the altar by our parents, carried by our godparents, and baptized by a priest. Jesus shows us through his baptism, that he was not in need of, that he was willing to be close to us; so close that he stood among sinners. Jesus began his ministry surround by sinners and ended his ministry surrounded by sinners on Golgotha, who were at his left and right. 

At our baptism we put on Christ, as St. Paul says. This is not just a random moment that happened in the past but an occurrence that substantially changed who we are to God. We become sons and daughters. 

Unfortunately, baptism has become something superficial for the parents and godparents of the child. We have begun to be more distracted on the celebration, baptismal name, and fight over who the godparents will be than the actual effects of baptism. This is primarily why godparents take on a fake and superficial role to claim the title godparent, look good in pictures, and forget about the responsibility. 

In fact, the Code of Canon for the Eastern Churches has an entire section dedicated to godparents and what the requirements and role should consist of. It is their duty to help the parents of the child catechize the infant as they grow up and make sure they’re living a Catholic life. 

Let us renew ourselves to our baptismal promises and know that we are called to something much greater.