A godparent (also known as a sponsor), in many denominations of Christianity, is someone who bears witness to a child’s baptism and then aids in their catechesis, as well as their lifelong spiritual formation. In the past, in some countries, the role carried some legal obligations as well as religious responsibilities.In both religious and civil views, a godparent tends to be an individual chosen by the parents to take an interest in the child’s upbringing and personal development, and to take care of the child should anything happen to the parents.
A male godparent is a godfather, and a female godparent is a godmother. The child is a godchild (i.e. godson for boys and goddaughter for girls).
You must have at least one sponsor, but usually infants get one of each gender and often from each side of the family.
The role of godparents has a very practical history. Godparents took over rearing children orphaned when their parents died prematurely. Today, being a godparent carries with it no legal right or ecclesiastical authority to the custody of children. Being a godparent, besides giving Christmas and birthday gifts every year, really means actively giving good Christian witness and example and being a role model and support by regularly and faithfully practicing the religion.
Can my infant have one Orthodox godparent and one non-orthodox godpaernt as we would like godparnets from both sides of the family?
Dear Helen,
If you‘re lucky the priest will allow the non orthodox godparent to be part of the ceremony. In my experience he will not be allowed to perform any of the religious parts.
With regards
Fanny