In denominations of Christianity, a godparent or sponsor is someone who bears witness to a child's baptism (christening) and later is willing to help in their catechesis, as well as their lifelong spiritual formation.[1] In the past, in some countries, the role carried some legal obligations as well as religious responsibilities.[2] 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, to offer mentorship or claim legal guardianship of the child if anything should happen to the parents.[3][4] 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).
- ^ Fitzgerald, Timothy (1994). Infant Baptism. Liturgy Training Publications. p. 17. ISBN 9781568540085.
- ^ Rojcewicz, Rebekah (2009). Baptism is a Beginning. Liturgy Training Publications. p. 24. ISBN 9781568544984.
In earlier times the role of godparent carried with it a legal responsibility for the child, should they become orphaned. Today, being a godparent is not legally binding and carries no legal rights, although godparents may also serve as legal guardians for children if this arrangement is documented in a valid will.
- ^ Marty, Martin E. (1962). Baptism: A User's Guide. Augsburg Books. p. 139. ISBN 9781451414080.
- ^ S. Ringen, What democracy is for: on freedom and moral government (Princeton University Press, 2007), p. 96.