Godparent

[Maydup]

Are you a godparent? Do you have a godparent? What does it mean to you and what is your relationship with your godchild?

[Atheist]

I think that godparents were meant to keep children on the path of their family's religion in the event of the parents dying too soon. As a practising atheist I wouldn't accept such a role; children should to learn from what they see of the world, not to believe whatever they are told.

[Atheist]

Of course, the occasional half-crown at easter would have been nice for the little 'uns.

[andy-hughes]

I am godfather to one of my nephews, but my sisters and I are estranged, so I haven't seen him, or them, for about thirty years.

I was asked for the sake of 'form' - I am an atheist, and my family knew that.

I accepted to avoid yet another pointless nasty row.

[Ellipsis]

Yes, I have a godchild or two. I'm not religious, but I did make sure my godchildren went to church until they were old enough to choose for themselves (around aged eleven), I bought nice birthday and Christmas presents until they were 21, I tried (and still try) to give them decent advice whenever they were asked and, for the most part, I treat them similar to my own children and different to their own parents.

[Atheist]

Sounds reasonable, Ellipsis. I've never been asked, so I didn't have to engage in a discussion about it. I'd have probably asked what was involved, and if not too demanding by the parents I'd have agreed and done what I thought best for the child (i.e. be good and think for yourself, and never ever believe what grown-ups tell you unless it sounds honest and true and good in your own heart.)

[Maydup]

I am non religious but lucky enough to have a godmother - Mum’s best friend back in the day - who still sends a small gift Christmas and birthdays. I’m in my 60’s!

I do the same for my godchild who is also non religious and now a young adult.

My own godmother has set the bar high!

[Old_Geezer]

Yes to both save that my god parents are no longer alive. Since my god kids are adults, and their parents still alive, it didn't affect me much. Nice to be asked though.

[douglas9401]

Just been told I'm the son of God and am a bit cross.

[Old_Geezer]

Apparently we are all sons & daughters of God, and it can't be the first time you've been told you're cross.

[davebro]

I think I had a godmother (an aunt) but my family never engaged in any religious nonsense since my baptism - which was a sop to my mother's catholic family.

[drmorgans]

I am godfather to two adult boys. The one's father told me my role was that if he died I should take his son to football games.