MyCatholicSource.com - 'Quick Help' Page: Godparents/Sponsors (Baptism)

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The following are from the Baltimore Catechism... (emphasis added)

Q. Why are godfathers and godmothers given in Baptism?

A. Godfathers and godmothers are given in Baptism in order that they may promise, in the name of the child, what the child itself would promise if it had the use of reason.

Q. What is the obligation of a godfather and a godmother?

A. The obligation of a godfather and a godmother is to instruct the child in its religious duties, if the parents neglect to do so or die.

Q. Can persons who are not Catholics be sponsors for Catholic children?

A. Persons who are not Catholics cannot be sponsors for Catholic children, because they cannot perform the duties of sponsors; for if they do not know and profess the Catholic religion themselves, how can they teach it to their godchildren? Moreover, they must answer the questions asked at baptism and declare that they believe in the Holy Catholic Church and in all it teaches; which would be a falsehood on their part.

Q. What should parents chiefly consider in the selection of sponsors for their children?

A. In the selection of sponsors for their children, parents should chiefly consider the good character and virtue of the sponsors, selecting model Catholics to whom they would be willing at the hour of death to entrust the care and training of their children.

And from the Catechism of Pope St. Pius X... (emphasis added)

Q. What are the obligations of godfathers and godmothers?

A. Godfathers and godmothers are bound to see that their spiritual children are instructed in the truths of faith and live as good Christians [Catholics], and they should edify them by their good example.

Q. What tie do sponsors contract in Baptism?

A. Sponsors contract a spiritual relationship with the baptized and with the parents of the baptized, which causes an impediment to marriage with these persons.

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