Godparents
Congratulations perspective Godparent!
It is the duty and privilege of Christian godparents to be “able and ready to help the newly baptized…on the road of the Christian life” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, No. 1255). The true intent is that the godparent be an active, practicing Catholic, someone who treasures the Catholic faith, provides good example and would joyfully and eagerly be a partner with the parents in raising the child in the faith. The godparent’s fiath must be valued and active.
The catechism states that the Godfather and Godmother must be “firm believers” (No. 1255). Without the gift of faith themselves, they cannot support the faith in someone else. Therefore, at least one godparent must be fully initiated, baptized Catholic. “Fully initiated” means someone who is Baptized, has received their first Holy Communion and is Confirmed. If the Godparent is married, the marriage must be a valid marriage in the Church. Godparents will present this letter of eligibility from their pastor PRIOR to Baptism.
St. Mary’s faith community pledges to support you as you undertake this important role in the life of your Godchild. In doing so, we ask that you attend Baptismal preparation classes with the parents of your Godchild. We offer the following for your prayerful consideration and commitment as you request your letter of eligibility.