“Will you be my child’s godparent?”
It’s a question often followed by smiles, hugs, and maybe even a few tears — but what is the point of godparents? Is being a godparent just a symbolic honor? A family tradition? A backup parent in case of emergencies?
While the role of godparents is sometimes misunderstood or reduced to a ceremonial title, the truth is: being a godparent is a deeply spiritual and lifelong commitment — one rooted in the heart of the Church’s mission.
A Spiritual Role, Not Just a Social One
The concept of godparents comes from the early Church, when adult converts were baptized and needed faithful Christians to help guide and support them in their new life with Christ. These sponsors were witnesses to the faith and stood beside the newly baptized as spiritual mentors.
Today, especially in the case of infant baptism, the Church continues this tradition by inviting godparents to help nurture the child’s faith as they grow. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church:
“Godparents… must be firm believers, able and ready to help the newly baptized — child or adult — on the road of Christian life.”
(CCC 1255)
So, godparenting isn’t about birthday gifts or photo ops — it’s about discipleship.
Soon-to-be parent? Check out our list of Catholic baby names!
What Do Godparents Actually Do?
A godparent is called to be a living witness of the Catholic faith, committed to supporting the spiritual life of their godchild in the following ways:
1. Modeling the Faith
A godparent should strive to live an authentic Catholic life — praying regularly, attending Mass, receiving the sacraments, and being a visible example of joy, mercy, and holiness.
2. Praying for Their Godchild
Prayer is one of the most powerful and lasting gifts a godparent can offer. Whether it’s a daily Hail Mary or offering a Mass intention, consistent prayer nurtures the spiritual bond between godparent and godchild.
3. Staying Involved
Godparenting is a long-term relationship, not a one-day role. Regular check-ins, sending notes on feast days, celebrating sacraments together — all of these reinforce the godparent’s presence in the child’s faith life.
4. Supporting the Parents
Parents are the primary educators of the faith, and godparents are there to support, not replace, their efforts. Encouragement, partnership, and accountability can go a long way in helping parents raise saints.
Who Can Be a Godparent?
The Church has specific requirements for someone to serve as a godparent:
- Must be a fully initiated Catholic (baptized, confirmed, and has received the Eucharist)
- At least 16 years old
- Practicing the faith and living in harmony with Church teachings
- Cannot be the child’s parent
In short: someone who takes their faith seriously and is capable of mentoring another soul toward heaven.
Why Godparents Matter More Than Ever
So, what is the point of godparents? Well, it turns out, it’s one of the most important jobs we can have in our spiritual lives. In a culture where faith can feel optional or even countercultural, godparents play a vital role in reminding the next generation that they belong to Christ. They are spiritual companions, mentors, and intercessors — showing their godchildren that living for God is not only possible, but worth everything.
Whether you’re a godparent now or might be one someday, remember: you’re not just part of a ceremony — you’re part of a soul’s journey toward sainthood.
And that’s a role that truly matters.
Want to Go Deeper?
Here are a few ways to engage further:
- Attend your godchild’s upcoming sacraments (First Communion, Confirmation, etc.)
- Write them a letter sharing your testimony or favorite saint
- Ask them how you can pray for them — and follow up!
- For more ideas, check out this guide from The Young Catholic Woman!
Additional Resources
Find more practical guides from our blog like How to Pick a Parish (and Why It Matters!), What is a Catholic Pilgrimage and Why Should You Go On One, and Eucharistic Adoration: Things To Do During Adoration.
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