Non-Religious God Parent

The word Godfather literally means "Little Granddad" but what does it actually mean to be a Godparent? Traditionally, a Godparent's job is to be informally responsible for helping their God Child through their religious journey. Of course, as a non-religious Godparent, how can you honestly guide anyone through their religious journey if I do not believe there is even a God?!

A core part of the role as Godparent, is to act as a guide to the child and offer support as various times throughout their life. The Godparent will be expected to attend the Christening/Baptism and also certainly attend other events such as birthday parties and school events. Depending on how much of a role the Godparent has played in the life of the child, he may be asked to play a part at that child's wedding. Essentially, the role of Godparent is a life-long commitment and not just a "one day gig"!

Some will argue whether it is appropriate for a non-religious person to become a Godparent, but the fact remains that a Godparent in the 21st Century has a different meaning to what it had a hundred years ago. The Godparent will still be expected to set a good example for your God Child but this does not mean that you have to encourage the child to believe in something that you do not believe in. This in itself, would be setting a bad example!

The church will almost certainly frown upon a non-religious man becoming a Godparent but the most important thing is that the parents of the child have chosen someone that they trust and know cares about the child, despite their religious beliefs.

To become a Godparent, you must first ask yourself whether you are actually ready to take on this responsibility. You need to be honest with yourself as this is a big commitment to make - most parents will understand if you decide to turn this down.

If you choose to become a Godparent but do not believe in God, you may decide to do this using the religious Godfather role as a template, or base for which to build yourself on. For example, instead of guiding your God Child through their "religious" journey, you can pledge to guide them through their "life" journey. It will be a good idea perhaps make a formal pledge to the parents and child, explaining what you will do for the child.

As a non-religious Godparent, you may choose to pledge to the child that you will inspire them throughout their life and encourage independence and personal growth. You could choose to offer support to the child at different stages in their life. You could also choose to uphold your standards and morals and use these to set an example to the child.

Essentially, to become a non-religious Godparent, you will need to take the traditional role and adjust it to suit your non-religious beliefs and values.