This is some sort of family tradition? Because the Church requires sponsors for Baptism and for Confirmation. There is not an “official First Communion godparent” defined.
A couple of years back,
Behind the Catholic Store Counter ran this article:
The invitation to be a godmother or godfather is a special honor. It can also be intimidating. What does it really mean to be a good godparent? We researched Mario Puzo’s book and Francis Ford Coppola’s movies on the subject of godfathers, but didn’t find much in terms of useful tips. So we’ve put together some of our own to help you do your best. After all, being a godparent is an offer you don’t want to refuse.
Tip #1: Pray.
Prayer is a gift you can give anytime, anywhere. Your godchild doesn’t even have to know about it. How to pray? Try starting with St. John the Baptist, patron saint of godparents. Ask his intercession on behalf of your godchild and your efforts to be a good godmother or godfather. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to “pray well,” just be sure to do it. If you didn’t know at least something about prayer, odds are you wouldn’t be a godparent.
Tip #2: Make yourself known.
If a younger godchild lives nearby, be a positive and caring presence. Offer to babysit once in a while. It’ll score you some points with the parents! Take older children for ice cream. Buy teens and twenty-somethings a cup of coffee. Don’t live nearby? No problem. A shortage of time and a surplus of distance are realities in contemporary life. Send a quick text or social media shout-out every once in a while. And include the occasional faith-related link.
Tip #3: Be proactively Catholic.
One way to do that is by offering to attend some sacramental preparation meetings for First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion or Confirmation. Those meetings are important but they compete for attention on already full family calendars. Attending a meeting, driving a kid to CCD class, or even helping to review sacramental prep lessons are great ways to show that you respect the position you’ve been given.
Tip #4: Remember that you’re not an aunt or an uncle.
Okay. You may be an aunt or an uncle, but those are completely different roles. Go beyond your identity as a family member and be a presence for Christ and His Church in your godchild’s life. When you give a gift, consider our selection of baptism and RCIA gifts. Giving money? Tithe a portion in your godchild’s name and make sure they know about it.
Tip #5: Don’t stop.
Godparenting doesn’t end when a child grows up. Stay on the job. Encourage godchildren to maintain their faith throughout high school, college (if they go to college) and out in the workplace. And don’t forget there may be more Catholic celebrations ahead. There could be a wedding, ordination or profession of vows in your godchild’s future. The loving and faithful presence of a godparent will make those events all the more happy.
Be sure to read our blog post about tips for welcoming newly baptized Catholics at your parish.
You’ll make a great God Mother I’m sure of it.
thank you so much for your post. I have to look through it and think on it thoroughly. Thank you!