Whether it is a religious baptism or a civil baptism, the tradition of the godfather and godmother is deeply rooted in our society. But where does it come from? What is the role of these two people with the child? And how do you choose a godfather or a godmother?
An ancestral tradition
Originally, the tradition of godfather and godmother emanated from the Catholic religion in order to ensure a spiritual presence with the child, and guide him towards the faith. In the Catholic religion, the godfather and godmother must be baptized, be at least 16 years old, and have at least made their first communion (ideally their confirmation). Their names are entered in religious registers on the day of baptism in church.
The tradition of the godfather and the godmother is absent from the Muslim religion, just like from the Hebrew religion. However, in the Jewish religion, the title of sandak can be issued. This is a real honor since in the custom, it is the father who holds his child on his knees during the circumcision ceremony. If he wishes, he can delegate this task to a man he holds in high esteem (often the grandfather).
A title without any legal obligation
Now the tradition of baptism has spread beyond the circle of Catholics. Some town halls even allow civil baptisms to be celebrated. This is a purely symbolic role, as in the Catholic tradition. Indeed, the godfather and the godmother are not subject to any legal obligation in the event of the death of the father or mother. However, for some parents this role is not given lightly and the godfather or godmother may be named legal guardian in their will.
Real guides for children
Apart from the accidents of life, the godfather and the godmother can play a precious role with their godchildren. It's not just about spoiling them on their birthday. As in the Catholic tradition, their role is more spiritual. They can be real guides by bringing a point of view different from that of the parents, transmit a passion or turn into confidants. To children or adolescents, and even adults, they represent a heartwarming presence that will support them throughout their lives. They can even take the place of parents by welcoming their godchild during a year of study, for example.
So, how do you choose a good godfather or a good godmother?
Very often, the father and the mother will both choose the godfather or the godmother by going to draw from those around them. There are then two schools: those who will choose a person from their family, or those who will prefer friends (often it is a mix of the two). When the choice is on a family member, such as a sibling, parents can rest assured that the godfather or godmother will not disappear from the child's life if the bond loosens. It’s also a way to involve an aunt, cousin or even a grandfather even more with the child. " I wanted to choose my sister-in-law to show her the special affection I have for her », Testifies Julie, mother of 2 children.
For other parents, family members already have a real place with the child. They therefore prefer to choose friends, a way of integrating them into the family circle. " I chose a friend I met abroad. We hadn't known each other for a long time at the time. But I knew there was a strong friendship between us, and I wanted to seal it forever by choosing her as my baby's godmother. », Remembers Marie, mother of 3 children.
Another criterion that can be taken into account is geography. To create a lasting bond with his or her godfather, it is preferable that the child can see him / her regularly. However, if he (s) are in another country, it is always possible to organize an annual meeting over several days, and make it a ritual holiday during which the child will enjoy meeting his godfather or her godmother.
How to announce the news to concerned?
Much like when you ask someone to marry someone, some parents like to give a special gift to the godparents. It could be a simple scratch card, a letter, a mug with a message, a personalized puzzle, a cute photo of you and the godfather or godmother in a frame. .. in short, multiple gifts can be considered. Sometimes it is before the birth, when the pregnancy is announced, that parents surprise those concerned.
35 gift ideas for a baptism
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