Godparents are really special. They are not just special on the day but special throughout a child’s life. It’s a life-long commitment which involves special times and treats, but much more as well. Godparents are among the most important people at a christening, who make big promises to encourage their godchild to grow in faith and commit to helping them understand how to live their life in a Christian way.

The main role of a god parent is to model and encourage them to develop Christian values – being kind and compassionate towards others, being generous towards others in need and standing against things in the world that cause injustice or suffering. To show them practically how to make good choices in life, for themselves and for others. Helping them to learn more about the Christian faith, through their church and in other ways.

In the christening service, a god parent will make some big promises to support their godchild throughout their life. These are the first things a god parent is asked in the christening service:-

• “Will you pray for them, draw them by your example into the community of faith and walk with them in the way of Christ?”

• “Will you care for them, and help them to take their place within the life and worship of Christ’s Church?”

To the questions above, the parents and godparents answer: “With the help of God we will”.

Gavin and I have been fortunate enough to be asked twice to be godparents for our friends children. It certainly is humbling to me and always comes as surprise its a very happy and honourable job! The ceremonies have both been meaningful and memorable. But my thoughts usually fall on being a Godmother of an infant is easy, but what will it be like when they’re teenagers or even into their adult life? I think as long as I remember my important role and always show Love, Availability and Good Intentions these traits should show a good role model to my god children throughout their life.

1. Be the Fun “godparent”: Especially when Godchildren are young, enjoy being able to dote on them. I’m not suggesting buying my way into their hearts with toys, trips and lots of chocolate. I mean I will do that too but I meant more around giving them your undivided attention

2. Make Time Together a Priority: If you live close, make dates where you do something special together. We try to meet with our godchildren on a regular basis going out for the day as families and trying to maintain a close connection.

3. Cards and Gifts are Part of the Connection with Godchildren: Remember important holidays (like starting school) and their birthdays with cards. A gift isn’t always a necessity, but certainly a nice to do. Christening gifts are usually keepsake presents, religious gifts or gifts that make a difference. All of these can reflect the values that matter to you – values like kindness, generosity and thinking of others.

Much love Rebecca