A difficult decision, right? An ancient Catholic tradition, “the entrusting” of a child to chosen godparents for baptism has taken place since ancient times1. However, the dilemma of how to choose godparents is and always will be very difficult and carries great responsibility. Perhaps the most difficult decision you will make regarding your child.
The Decision
The decision is usually made in agreement by the couple, where the closest relatives, friends, and people with whom there is greater affinity are considered—people the parents believe will maintain a good relationship and bond forever, and, of course, those who will give attention and care to the child.
What is a Godparent?
Being a godparent to a child should not merely be a status but a responsibility to care for, love, be present, and act as “second parents.” Regardless of religious questions, choosing godparents is a very serious decision and should be taken seriously by the parents and by the godparents when they agree to sponsor that child.
It is not simply about taking part in the baptism ritual, wetting the child’s head, receiving a baptism certificate, taking a photo, and that’s it. The responsibility of being a godparent goes far beyond that; it is following the child’s life until adulthood, instructing, advising, and setting good examples just like their parents.
Unfortunately, the choice is not always the right one, and since only God knows the future, many parents may end up regretting their decisions over time. That’s why it’s good to stop and think, reflect on all situations, and truly assess if this bond is strong enough to entrust such a responsibility to the chosen person and whether that “affinity” won’t fade over time.
A good example is when choosing a couple who are dating—where the man is a friend of the couple and the woman became a friend through this relationship. What if they break up?
Will the woman continue to firmly honor her responsibility as godmother? Or will the bond and relationship end together with her relationship with the godfather? That’s why weighing up all the factors, including imagining future situations, is always the best path!
What Does It Mean to Be a Godmother?
Being a godmother is to be entrusted with a position of responsibility, where your role is as important as the parents’. It is to be present, participate in the child’s daily life, as well as in special milestones and important dates for your godchild’s growth. When this doesn’t happen and the godmother is absent, disappointment is certain!!
Inevitably, regret over the choice sets in, then how do you talk to the person and let them know you’re dissatisfied? Love is a feeling to be given freely, without demands and spontaneously. A good godmother knows her godchild’s preferences, what they like to eat, play, and what they find fun.
The Godchild–Godmother Relationship
To get to know your godchild better, there’s nothing better than creating special moments to be with and experience situations with the little one, whether it’s a simple lunch or a walk in the park. Such moments may seem simple to anyone else, but they can make a big difference in the relationship and create unforgettable childhood memories.
An educational approach should be established for the child, and not only should the godmother respect this, but she should also maintain the method in use—this makes all the difference in everyone’s relationship. Being a godmother doesn’t mean you should spoil and indulge all the child’s wishes; of course, special gifts and fun outings are always eagerly awaited by little ones, but you shouldn’t spoil the child and go against what the parents recommend at home.
A Good Godmother
Being a good godmother means working in partnership with the mother in everything concerning the child! Seeing the emotion in the godmother’s and godfather’s eyes as they witness the first steps, first words, and each new achievement makes parents absolutely sure they made the right choice and couldn’t have entrusted this role to a better person. Being a godparent is loving your godchild as if they were your own child and dedicating yourself wholeheartedly to the life that was placed in your hands.
See also: Baby Introduction Party – Modernizing the First Meeting
Photo: TF Personal Archive
