Baptism But No Believers for Godparents

[IntoTheArk]

Hi fellow Christians, I've got a bit of a dilemma.
I'm planning a baptism for DD and I don't know who to choose for Godparents, who will actually keep the promises made at the baptism.

DH's family are ardent Catholics who won't even stay for the church service as they can't stand protestants (we changed denominations). My family are militant atheists with a Catholic background.

We've only been here a few weeks so I don't know anyone very well through church yet (everyone is very friendly though). WWYD?

Would you mind if I prayed for you and yours? There's one baptism etc.

Thank you, that would be greatly appreciated.

I'm just trying to write notes for the two services that I am leading on Sunday. I'll include something in the prayers about parents who want their child baptised but don't have family support over this. I'll not be specific but I'll be thinking of you @IntoTheArk

Do you have to have any God parents?
My children do not - but I’m not sure whether it’s a denominational thing that we were allowed to not have any.
mostly because I feel you’re asking people to make promises they can’t keep…
Im a godparent but due to distance have little contact with my god son and don’t feel I’m doing a great job therefore fulfilling my promise to help bring him up in the Christian faith
At our child’s christening, we as parents made promises as did the congregation on behalf of the church

Just a thought - would it be possible for you to have the church baptism with some friendly members as godparents who make the religious promises, but then also have a family 'naming ceremony' for those who don't want to participate in a religious service?

I’m just writing to say that as a Catholic I’m sad at the stance of the Catholics in your life. I might be sad if a family member decided to change denomination baptism is recognised between most of them. Beyond that you will not change anyone’s faith by force or constantly calling. If you asked questions again then that’s different.

I hope you have a lovely day

Thanks everyone. This morning my sibling has called and talked to me separately to other family members and said she is trying to work out a way to come without upsetting anyone. It turns out she's happy to be a godparent but just doesn't want to make any family waves. So we've got one now and if she can't come, we can get a proxy to do the church bit. 🎉 Thanks for all the prayers and sound advice.

My eldest godchild is now an adult but I became her godparent at 17. There wasn't a rule about age as far as I can remember in the C of E. Or if there was we broke it!

Also I know of people with godparents abroad, one if whom couldn't travel but made a video to show in church of their commitment to pray for the child. They did have other UK based godparents but maybe this would be an option if you have someone suitable internationally.

Update: I've spoken to some people today before church, and they will be delighted to be godparents.

That is good news. I'm pleased that you found people.