Choosing a Godparent

How to Choose a Godparent

A Godparent is a Catholic person of mature faith who is and will be a support and witness to the child throughout his/her journey of faith.   

Who can be a Godparent?

1. Godparents must be at least 16 years old and may not be the child's parent (step parent, father or mother).
2. A Godparent must be fully initiated (Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmed) and actively participating in the Catholic Church (attend Mass on Sundays).
3. Lead a life of faith in harmony with the faith and the role to be undertaken.
4. If married, must be married in the Catholic Church.  The two godparents do not have to be married to one another.
5. There is to be only one male sponsor or one female sponsor or one of each.

Who can be a Christian Witness?

1. A baptized non-Catholic may not be a godparent but,  may serve as a Christian Witness along with a Catholic godparent