When my parents appointed you both with the title of Godparents I never would have fathomed how much that moment would have impacted my life. For being a fabulously sweet godmother to me, you shall leave in my heart rent-free until the end of time. Anonymous, 100. Only two go on the register, but we put them all on the certificate, Ms. Crino said. Sign in to comment to your favorite stories, participate in your community and interact with your friends. Ms. Adams was raised culturally Catholicstatues all over the place, she saidbut her mother did not go to Mass, and Ms. Adams drifted toward the Baptist Church. Best pick ever! Anonymous, 56. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says: 1255 For the grace of Baptism to unfold, the parents' help is important. I would appreciate hearing from you. !Thank you for choosing me @selammm This a" From the moment that I was born I was given the title Goddaughter. I have four children, and weve asked each of their godparents in different ways, ranging from a phone call to an in-person conversation to a package in the mail. I want more than anything in this world to see you smiling, laughing, and being happy all the days of your life. Last December, I called my sister and eagerly told her to check her mail. Answer: Thank you for your question regarding who may be considered as a godparent for a Catholic baptism. Respected godmother, I would like to say thanks for coming to my baptism. 13.2 the person is younger than the age that has been stipulated by the diocesan Bishop, usually age 16. Even though I was a baby and I was not verbally capable of making that big decision, I would not have given it to anyone else. And she would tell a story of the rainbow. When I hold her I often cant let her go. Today her class is about half Filipinos, Poles and Indians. 1. Sure, when you can, treat them to some bonding over mint chocolate chip. As the child matures, it will be important for him to see someoneother than his parentswho treats spiritual goods as the highest goods in this life. I am so blessed! Anonymous, 52. With lots of love, Jenny, Christened on 23rd May at Grace Church. However, they did designate a . Godparents are spiritual examples to their Godchildren of how to relate to, pray to, trust, lean on, love, worship and honor God. like you. Custom God Mother Shirt. With you beside me through my life, I know that Ive been blessed. Hailey, 47. Ms. Nelson often has the unpleasant task of telling them they cannot honor friends with the godparent role because they are not Catholic or because they are in an invalid marriage. Rather than using baptism as an opportunity to draw in sponsors, the church needed to be wary of infiltrators posing as catechumens. 2. Dear Aunty, Thank you for being part of my life this day and forevermore by becoming my Godmother. Your understanding is perpetual and your energy is superb. Anonymous, 53. These are general responsibilities since the roles will vary somewhat depending on the parents and the child's religion. Because the couple you mention do not fulfill the requirements of part (3), they would unfortunately be ineligible to be godparents. I am overwhelmed to have been chosen as a Godparent. I have always felt so proud of having such respectable folks like you in my life. The role of a godmother and the role of a godfather includes setting a good example for the child and being a positive and strong role model for them. A sponsor also helps the baptized person to lead a Christian life in keeping with baptism and to fulfill faithfully the obligations inherent in it. If you think I'm wrong, then you're probably a Taurus (did I do that right?). If you can sing like her, too, it's a plus. Thank you for being the best Godmother, I love you, love from (name)." My dearest godmother, remember that you are one of the best things that God has ever blessed me with. The Code of Canon Law (c. 8742) allows the participation of "a baptized member of a non-Catholic ecclesial community" but only "together with a Catholic sponsor and then only as a witness of the baptism.". Godmother! Now you have accidentally said something valuable. Hercule Poirot, 25. Choose any scented candle and place the label on it. Your birthday is special to so many people that know you. Thus, there is a distinction between a godparent and a Christian witness. Many people wont have been so lucky to get a godmother like you. Just one of the biggest stars of the 1950s, no big deal. Her brother asked to be confirmed so he could be a proper and good godfather for his nephew. Even if they are practicing Catholics, she said, many do not know a single person who fulfills the criteria to be a godparent. So choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants, Psalm 119:30. 2. Everyone of us has chosen a godmother or godfather. Mudhan Shabir, 15. I love you! Anonymous, 49. Your loving hearts have put up with me though for the past 20 years and if it werent for you I would not truly know what love was like. 25 of the Best Festive Words to Describe Christmas, 14 of the Best Templates of an Internship Cover Letter. A non-Catholic person may not be a godparent at a Catholic baptism. God was so intricately aware of us that He took note as. Proud doesnt do it justice. When I was weak you showed me what strength looked like. She blogs daily at simchafisher.com and weekly at The Catholic Weekly. I could not be more honored to be your godmother/father. But we know theyre praying fervently for my kids. 12. And then Ill think its my fault hes turned away from Jesus.. But I think the babies intercede for them.. Pray continuously for your Godchildren. They pressured the parents to abort, but as staunch Catholics, Cathy and her husband resisted. Your role was much greater than a teacher because you were more like my second parents. If you live a good and moral life, youll earn your godchilds respect. Oprah Winfrey! Godparents must have been baptized in the Orthodox Church, must be in full sacramental communion, and must be a member in good standing of a local Orthodox parish.. A person may not serve as a godparent if his or her marriage has not been blessed by the Orthodox Church, or, if civilly divorced, he or she has not been granted an ecclesiastical divorce, or if for . Your godparents. I am so lucky to have a Godparent/s. I know how much thought must have gone into it. Id say $100 is average in our area. I love you. Thank you so much for picking me as a Godparent. Make a candle label or buy one from the market that has the question written on it. Your Godmother. Asking someone to be a godparent is a big deal, kind of like asking someone to walk you down the aisle at your wedding, Ms. Adams said. Thank You for choosing me as Godfather to your child is a very special card with a sweet gentle angel baby sleeping in the clouds. It enlarges the family by adding names to the roles, but it also strengthens the family ties within the communion of saintseven before birth, even after death. Are You A Liturgist With A Passion to Form Young Adults? I just feel it in my heart, she said. The godparent name is entered into the parish record book as the official godparent or sponsor for baptism. A godmother is always there. Anonymous, 11. They didnt need anything material at that point. How do you say thank you to godparents to make them feel really special? Then her friend asked her to become the godmother of her first son. The Modern, Secular Godparent. Despite the life-long implications of choosing godparents, the parents themselves are often not the only party with a say in the decision. Ah! Jesuit Father Hans Zollner will be a consultant for the Diocese of Romes office dedicated to safeguarding minors and vulnerable people. I am glad his baptism went well and it was only because of you that everything went well. "Only a godmother can give hugs like a mother, can keep secrets like a sister, and share love like a friend." - Anonymous 2. Of course, Mrs. Hubert across the street loves you, and your godmother loves you, and your grandparents love you. Jessye Norman, 27. If the brides father is no longer living, the padrino (godfather) may walk the bride down the aisle. Dear godmother, you are the biggest blessing to me from God. This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator. Cost: $14.01. There may be no easy way to say thank you to godparents, but that doesnt mean you have to skip them year after year. And since the role of godparent is to guide the child in their faith, especially if something should happen to the parents, our kids really need good godparents. Inside was a custom Christmas ornament that read Fairy Godmother, with a note asking her, Will you be my babys godmother?. On your special day, I wish you would receive lots of joy and happiness that you truly deserve. Being a godparent means youre an active participant in the childs life, but its generally more of a religious role. But we pray for them, and they know our views. As with all things infused with grace, the godparenting relationship can work in more than one way, drawing both child and godparent closer to Christ. Would give so unselfishly. Elton John! It was 100 percent a choice of respect, Ms. Adams said. Relationship Counseling - Marriage resources, Falling in Love Finding God Marriage and the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology, The problem of hatredand how Christians are contributing to it, Jesuit sex abuse expert appointed to Vatican office for child protection, Sin, hell and scrupulosity: How to repent during Lent (and how not to). Thanks to you for all that youve accomplished for me. Anonymous, 21. In this circumstance, its usually the case that a girl will have 2 Godmothers and 1 Godfather and a boy to have 2 Godfathers and 1 Godmother. Dear godmother, when I go to meet you, I feel empowered and energized. She had heart surgery and lived to be 9 years old before her shunt finally failed. As I continue to grow, I know that my time with the both of you is very precious and I hope to use it as wisely as I can. If the person to be baptized is a baby or young child, the godparent or godparents speak on his or her behalf at the baptism, responding to the question, What do you ask of Gods church? with the answer Faith!, But on the godparents role after the baptism, the church is less specific. Which of these godmother quotes is your favorite? I can't quite believe you chose me as a Godparent. 4. b. 1. Can a baby have 2 godmothers and no godfather? I have four godchildren myself, and each time a friend has asked me to be her babys godmother, Ive felt absolutely overjoyed. Sometimes it is someone she would have never considered on her own or someone the family does not see often. Thank you for being my godmother. Canon law says godparents must be practicing Catholics, be at least 16 years old (with some exceptions) and have received the three sacraments of initiation (baptism, confirmation and the Eucharist). I would have never pictured that you both would be one of my biggest influences in life. Happy birthday. Anonymous, 60. To my godchild, Ill take your little hand, and hold it as you grow. I wish you tons of blessings today and forever! Anonymous, 88. She and mother were very tight. Hank Williams Jr. 93. Beyonce! If this person is taking tentative steps [toward the church] and is hit with obstacles, hes going to say, Why did I bother? and give up. Some of her children, who range in age from 1 to 26, are now old enough to be godparents for their own siblings. To be in good standing they cannot be remarried, or in a serious relationship, unless the previous marriage has been granted an annulment. Can you please reply as to whether I am correct? Is it even possible to not like her? Rainbow, no one knows where the rainbow goes. Robbie Robertson, 48. No matter how the question comes, it's always a great honor. I know Twitter just discovered her because of 'Bird Box,' but she has a million other movies that are just as amazing (you're one step closer to being Miss Congeniality). Ms. Ekblad has suffered many miscarriages, and she chooses godparents for those children, too. Dear goddaughter, wherever you go, remember that your godmother has got your back. James already thinks of you guys as the coolest parents on the block, and I agree. Wonderful things happen in our lives that make us glad. Never forget it. My life would not be the same without you. Ms. Adams herself chose some of her childrens godparents under duress, simply to avoid offending family members. Id say most gifts begin at $50+, family and close friends might get $100 or more. You have grown into an amazing young woman. Below is a Canon Law citation regarding the selection of godparents. I didnt think Id ever be the type who was asked, so its a lovely surprise. Anonymous, 39. My godmother used to say, I dont want to rust out, I just want to work out. A godmother is a special giftone that provides the strength of family and the comfort of friendship. Anonymous, if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'quoteambition_com-box-4','ezslot_4',158,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-quoteambition_com-box-4-0');6. Our journey starts on my Baptism Day. This elegant card is personalised with the name/s of the sender/s to create a stunning keepsake for a special Godmother. You still ask about my personal life. Please visit ourmembership pageto learn how you can invest in our work by subscribing to the magazine or making a donation. Traditionally , Christian parents ask someone to become godmother or godfather to their child to help with the responsibility of raising the child in the Christian faith , teaching him or her about Jesus, and praying for the child . Thank you so much for picking me as a Godparent. She walked, she talked, she was the school spelling bee champ, she played soccer, she was in plays. Dear Aunty Gemini, I am so blessed to have a Godmother like you. For this reason, family members are often a good choice because it's pretty hard to disconnect from family. I love you! Anonymous, 78. Help the child to look forward to confirmation. She calls me god for short, thats cute, I taught her that. Ellen DeGeneres, 69. But she calls her granddaughters godmother the ultimate godparent, who brings Christmas and birthday presents, lets her goddaughter walk the Stations of the Cross with her during Lent and prays the rosary for her every day. Im glad youre my godmothersomeone to hold my hand, a friend if I should need one who will love and understand. Godparents play a special role in the life of the child. He or she has no penalties in the church. Can. You did not have to cheer me on at sporting events, watch my achievements, comfort me during times of tribulations, and you did not have to support me even when you were disappointed in me. people, women and others in the Catholic Church, Cardinal Cupich: Critics of Pope Francis Latin Mass restrictions should listen to JPII. The short answer is no. -1 Likes, 11 Comments - Maza (@mazalena32) on Instagram: "To my baby ImaniI am honored to be your Godmama! Godparents are often chosen before babies are born. The message is softened and lost and therefore the followers are lost and noone can find godparents! These are folks who are raised with nothing. Today, it is far less likely that some impostor would seek baptism under false pretenses. Sponsor the child's baptism. If I were a fairy godmother, I would give you your hearts desire in an instant. They want something for their kids, or they see something in their fiancs family, and they want to be a part of it.. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. While some faith communities may expect godparents to raise their godchildren if the parents die, neither civil nor church law recognizes such an obligation. I am honored and blessed to be your Godparent, and look forward to a special relationship with you! When we accepted the invitation to be your godparents, we never could have imagined what a wonderful and rewarding job it would turn out to be. This is one really fabulous godmother. Anonymous, 40. Who wouldn't want to have something in common with her? I dont know how good I would be at that. Susan Glaspell, 7. I have read about it, and I found that the godmothers position is to take care of the morals of the child. The majority probably arent practicing [Catholics]. You instructed me to be the sparkling light for everyone. I got out of that mode pretty fast, Ms. Crino said. You had a choice and I am so overjoyed that you both chose to guide me through my walk called life. She still lives down this way. What's your sign? There could be a stronger bond between your child and the godparent if the two are from the same family. I dont know if thats a thing, she said. Then they discovered that the child had a severe heart defect and encephalitis. What do you ask the godmother at a baptism? 2. Dearest godmother, I love you like 50 Cent loves being in the club. Anonymous, 95. You didn't say if you had a son or daughter. Allow your Godchildren to see your joys and sorrows (in an age-appropriate way) and see how your faith is interwoven into every aspect of your life. 40 Thank You Dad Messages Every Dad Will Appreciate, To Our Superwomen: 30 Best Words to Describe Mom. What this looks like practically varies between families, but it does mean that godparents ought to be people who participate in the life . I never went to church as a child, but I went to first Communion and got a party. Her own godparents were friends of her nonbelieving parents, and she has no relationship with them. This is so that the child gets a "second chance" in the event that the parents are (or become) unable or unwilling to raise the child Catholic. Youre trying to take people where theyre at., When parents choose godparents, they often do not look to people who know more about the faith than they do and who might fill in the gaps in their childs religious education. I was living a meaningless life until I found you. We think of water when we think about baptism, but what about the light, the way that light gets spread and whos responsible for maintaining and sharing that light? Ms. Nelson said. Basically, Ruby and her family adopted all of us, Ms. Dawson said. If you ever feel lost or distraught, I will be there to offer a listening ear. If you login and register your print subscription number with your account, youll have unlimited access to the website. Sign up for our Premium service. jebjebitz 6 yr. ago I recently had my daughter baptized in a Catholic Church. The other consideration is if you wish to send your child to a religious school. A Godmother's Love by Amy Elizabeth Zielke. Question: Can you please clarify for me, something that is confusing regarding choosing godparents for babys baptism in the Catholic Church. To my dearest godmother, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your guidance and support especially when I needed it the most. In addition, the godparent or sponsor is to be chosen by the person to . Chris Battle, a dad in Washington, D.C., said he and his wife did not select a godparent for their 1-year old daughter because he's "pretty anti-religious.". We are grateful for your love and time in celebrating this baptism. Things come and go. How many Godparents can my child have? In the traditional, religious sense godparents are typically adults from your church who lead a faith-filled life and participate in the child's baptism. Their parents, if they are Catholic at all, are usually agreeable to the idea but are not always invested or catechized. When she married and gave birth to her daughter, she and her husband chose a close friend to be the godmother; but since the friend's husband is a Methodist pastor, she chose her husband's friend to be the godfather. You have been a motivation. Thank you for being such a great Godmother. But if youre looking for a creative and memorable way to pop the question to the prospective godmother or godfather, weve got you covered. I would say I got the best of the bunch when I have you as my godmother. You are such a bright source of light in my life. Interview: Whats it like to photograph Pope Francis? Non-Hispanic Catholics are sometimes taken aback by the warmth and enthusiasm Hispanic godparents or confirmation sponsors (often the same person) bring to the relationship. May your special day bring you lots of joy, happiness, and love, in the same way that you are giving to me! Anonymous, 86. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Ive got to get me one of those little accessories. Courteney Cox, 9. The godparent's faith need not be perfect or mature, but it must be valued and active. There was nothing that could be done. Be responsible for the child's spiritual learning. At the time, I would have never imagined what a privilege it was to have been given that. At the baptism, you and they make a commitment to teach the child the beliefs and practices of the Catholic faith. Ive never had a godmother like you, and for that, Im in this way, so appreciative consistently! They chose you for me and Im happy that they did. They want something for their kids, or they see something in their fiancs family, and they want to be a part of it., Years ago, she co-authored a book on baptism preparation, but she said it would not be useful now, considering how poorly catechized so many parents are. It is possible to have only one godparent, but if there are two, there must be one male and one female. Dear Though I'm sure you know how much we appreciate your agreeing to become Sean's Godfather, we wanted to write to once again express our gratitude. I know that he placed you both in my life because you both have so much compassion and love in your heart. As your godmother, I only feel pride in seeing the man youve become. My parents really got it right when they chose you to be my godmother! At a recent family funeral, she found herself awash in cousins with whom she had no actual blood or marital ties; they were simply bound together through godparenting relationships. Yeah, morning is my godmother. If you need to say thank you to godparents, but you cant find the words to use, we hope the ideas above can stir your creativity. The doctors said that if she survived birth, she would be blind, unable to walk or talk and would only ever suffer. Its [a matter of] Gods grace and his own path.. beside me to love and to guide me.