So why, as an independent celebrant, do I nevertheless encourage parents to choose a godmother and a godfather for their child? In short, you could say that I am rather fond of «depth».
The process that choosing a godmother or godfather brings with it is not at all a simple one: the parents consider which people in their circle could enrich their child’s life and with whom they wish to enter into a bond centred on the child. It is worth clarifying expectations when approaching the people concerned, defining the role of godparent together, as it were. There should also be room to express what the godmother or godfather does not want. Statements such as «I don’t want to be a present delivery service.» or «I can’t come to every music or school performance or every match.» deserve just as much space as the babysitting or holiday question. Once this foundation has been laid, there is nothing lovelier than watching the child place its trust in its godmother and godfather, value the godmother’s opinion, pay special attention to the godfather – this is how a genuine relationship with depth emerges, one that can be a gain for both sides.
In the welcome ceremony, the godparents may then be given as prominent a place as they wish. Some parents want to announce and explain their choice to everyone present. Some godparents want to say «yes» to this role within the given setting. There are godmothers who offer their charge some personal words for the journey. There are godfathers who perform a song for their godchild, godmothers who hold the child during the naming, godfathers who give their charge a piece of jewellery. These can all be ways of involving the godparents.
What I consider important is expressing gratitude that they have accepted this wonderful role, and that there is a moment within the child’s community in which its chosen companions are officially named or confirmed.
