Godparents

[MelanieM]

Are they for show, or do they actually have a purpose and duty?

[DavidObeid]

Hi Melanie,

The Code of Canon Law says this (with my emphasis):


Can. 872 Insofar as possible, a person to be baptized is to be given a sponsor who assists an adult in Christian initiation or together with the parents presents an infant for baptism. A sponsor also helps the baptized person to lead a Christian life in keeping with baptism and to fulfill faithfully the obligations inherent in it.

(http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG1104/__P2Y.HTM)

[MelanieM]

Perfect, thank you.

[DavidObeid]

This from Anthony English (my son Joseph's godfather) has written this article: http://www.thecatholicforum.org/content.php?273-Dear-Parents-and-Godparents

[MelanieM]

Thankyou Dave & Anthony, what a wonderful and refreshing read.

[MonicaD]

I have a (somewhat) related question...

Does anyone know if a Catholic is permitted to be a godparent to a Protestant child? Is there an official Church rule?

Many thanks.

[DavidObeid]

Hi MonicaD,

If you are ever asked to participate in any religious ceremony outside of the Catholic Church my advice would be to contact your local chancery (Bishop's) office and ask for permission. I did this when I was asked to be a pall bearer at my wife's (non-Catholic) Grandfather's funeral. Permission was willingly granted, but I asked just to be sure and to avoid any possibility of scandal.

When you contact the chancery you should have details such as what the event is (in this case a Baptism), where it will be conducted (ie in what religion/denomination), the date and location, and the role you've been asked to do. It may be a simple rubber stamp or further clarification may be sought. Be sure to obey the conditions laid down by the Bishop.