In infant baptism, a godparent, together with the parents, presents the child for baptism and helps the baptized person to lead a life of faithful Christian discipleship.
In adult baptism, the godparent assists the baptized in Christian initiation.
There may be one godfather, one godmother, or one of each.
To become a godparent, a person must:
Be designated by the one to be baptized, the parents/guardian, or, if they are absent, by the pastor or minister of baptism.
Be capable of fulfilling the obligations of a godparent and intend to do so.
Be at least 14 years old, unless a different age is set by the diocesan bishop or an exception is granted by the pastor or minister for a just cause.
Be a Catholic who has received the sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist.
Lead a life of faith consistent with the duties of a godparent.
Not have any canonical penalty legitimately imposed or declared.
Cannot be a parent of the child.
(From the Code of Canon Law, Canons 872, 873, 874)
Provided there is one Catholic sponsor, a baptized non-Catholic Christian may serve as a Christian witness for Baptism. This person is a witness, not a sponsor.
Requirements include:
Must be at least 14 years old
Must be a validly baptized Christian living an upright life
Cannot be a parent of the child
Cannot be a Catholic who has formally left the Church
A Christian witness cannot be a non-baptized person; for example, Jewish or Muslim godparents are not permitted under universal Church law. In the baptismal register, the designation “Christian witness” is noted beneath the name of the non-Catholic Christian.
If you are a St. Patrick’s parishioner, please see Fr. Rob or Fr. Marius at the end of Sunday Mass. You can either request a sponsor form or present the form you already have (provided by the baptismal couple). The priests will take you to the Sacristy, where they will sign the form and affix the church seal.