I've pissed off my sister...

[ShabbyChic8]

I am my nephews' GodParent. (I am a Christian and sis had no Christian friends at the time) My sister found out that I am not returning the favour with my DC. She's now very upset. I understand she's upset, but I think she has to respect my decision. (I have Christian friends who I want to honour with the role of GodParent.) AIBU?

Is it unusual to ask aunties/uncles to be GP's too?

I don't think it is normal practice to have aunts/ uncles as godparents. Neither my brother or sister are godparents to my children.

can't you ask her as well as the choose one.

Your sister is unreasonable. Godparent role is one which means they teach your child about God. It mentions that in the service of many churches. My hubby and I are ttc and we have already had this discussion. His family are atheist. We are Christian. He is Godfather to his friends son but his friend won't be to ours if we are blessed with one as he isn't a Christian.

My family are atheist too or agnostic so for us it's going to go to friends in church who attend and have faith.

My daughter wasn't christened/dedicated but she chose my friend to be her Godfather and so far he is really keeping the deal. He sends her bibles, Christian CDs. Talks to her about faith. Sponsored her going to music school and junior camp. He prays for her and tells her. And that's what I would have chosen had her dad allowed me to have her dedicated when she was a baby.

Your choice in Godparent is important. It's about teaching them and being there for them it's not just a here's a baby, drop some water on its head and let's go have a party.

There is a very real reason for the service and your sister should respect your decision. :)

Apologies if this comes across as self righteous

My DSis didn't choose me - but I have a far closer relationship with her kids than the GPs anyway. However I will pick her if we are lucky enough to have kids as she's my closest friend (we've become a lot closer over the last 15 years since hers were born). Totally up to you. I wasn't upset - although I might have been if she'd had a baby now, given how close we are - and if I were I'd never tell her - it's her choice.

I think asking relatives to be godparents is a waste. My idea of a godparent, alongside the traditional one of ensuring their religious upbringing, is that the child has another adult to turn to for advice should he need it, especially if he felt he could not discuss a problem within the family. We chose a couple who are friends of ours (but have known DH for ages) who we trust absolutely to advise our son. They will also be named as a co-trustee on financial matters.

Thank you for your comments. I decided to ask her as it clearly meant a great deal to her and it's not worth a family feud. However, I expect the role will be taken on more fully by my other 4 GP's rather than my sis.

Pinkflower1 I'm sorry you're hurting, I hope the hurt will stop whatever your sis decides x

Agree with Orianda about having someone outside the family.

DH & I have an adequate but sometimes strained relationship with one another's families, who in turn have a 'touch and go' relationship with each other.

I know that the three GPs we chose (as opposed to BIL who is basically MILs lapdog ) will advocate fairly and rationally for our DD if, God forbid, anything were to happen to me/us.

Glad you've sorted it - hope you have a lovely Christening .