Long-Distance GodParenting: 5 Tips For Attending The Baptismal Service
Attending the baptismal or dedication service is among the first important occasions in the life of your Godchild. However, distance can ruin many a good intention. Long-distance Godparenting does not make attending the baptismal service an easy task. Nevertheless, godparents should do everything possible to be present at this event.
Baby Anna Amelia, my God daughter was baptized near the ending of October. I know that’s sometime ago, but you’re all going to hear about it anyway. Her mother threatened to hang me if I missed the service. I almost got hanged.
Thankfully, I made it to Barbados and had a wonderful time with my Goddaughter..oh yes and with the rest of the family too. But it was all about Anna. See more photos and the rest of our bonding story.
Anna was baptized a Moravian. I’m of course, JBU Baptist and the lone non-Moravian sponsor. Not only did I stand as a sponsor of baby Anna but I also had the honor of preaching the message at the service. Sometimes, we preachers tend to prepare a message for ‘the people’. This was one of those occasions when the sermon was was written for me as I too was a sponsor of baby Anna.
Participating in this way in the service reminded me of some important things. Here are some tips I’d like to share with you.
5 Preparation Tips For Attending The Baptismal/Dedication Service
Understand the Theological/Doctrinal Issues Involved
Generally, Baptists and Moravians differ on the issue of baptism. However, my views on Baptism from both perspectives enable me to serve in this capacity as sponsor. Do not trivialize or overlook this issue, find out what differences if any exist between your views and that of your God-child’s family. Your role is to nurture spiritually, not confuse or indoctrinate in your tradition.
Be Prepared For The Liturgy
If you are acting as a sponsor to a child that belongs to a different religious tradition, ask about the liturgy and what will be expected of you during the service. There won’t be a rehearsal beforehand. And it does reduce the anxiety if you know at what point in the service the Baptism/Dedication will take place, where you are to stand, what you are to say and so on.
Attend Godparent Counselling
If you live out of town, or overseas this might not be possible. However, if you are available take the time to attend the counselling session for God-parents. If you are unable to attend, ask the parents to fill you in on what you missed. Some churches provide a handout with tips for Godparents.
Mode of Dress
Find out what you are to wear. Yes I am dead serious. Some churches do have dress codes for parents and Godparents. Notice I’m the only female not wearing white in this picture. I confess I forgot about the dress code. Thank heavens I had something other than my ‘hot-pink’ suit in my suitcase! Do remember to ask the parents about this.
Pledge To Observe The Baptism/Dedication Anniversary
Begin making plans for how you will celebrate the baptismal anniversary next year or each year. For example, pledge to do X at age 1, or pledge to do Y each Baptismal anniversary. Make a note of it so that you do not forget it. It doesn’t have to be bought, it can be made or simply saying a prayer maybe with your Godchild on the phone.
Speaking of phone..did I tell you that since returning home Anna and I have been talking on the phone. And she does recognize my voice. According to her mother, when Anna hears my voice she gets excited like she wants to eat the phone…awww gee. [As long as her mom doesn't tell me she does that with everybody, I'm happy. Smart mom knows how to keep Godparents happy.]
Take your role seriously and enjoy the blessing you receive from sharing with “the least of one of God’s children..” See more photos and read about my story of bonding with Anna.
Peace,
Marvia
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November 25th, 2007 at 6:19 pm
Looks like you had a wonderful time. Being a God Parent is a blessing and the fact that the parents thought of you to take on this role is a blessing as well. Best of luck to you and your endeavors helping Baby Anna in her walk with the Lord.
November 26th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
Kevin,
Thanks for your kind wishes. It is truly a privilege
to be chosen to receive such a blessing and yes I do hope that Anna’s life will be blessed by my presence as well.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:09 am
I must admit that such advice is practical. I agree with Kevin that being a God parent is really a blessing and it does say what the parents think of you when you are given such a privilege.
Baby Anna Is quite adorable too, Great photos. Even though this is about long distance God Parenting it does bring to mind the idea of a whole community raising a child. Maybe that’s for another post.
November 27th, 2007 at 11:23 am
Hey Duane,
Thanks for that great post idea. It’s very promising since today’s Western societies have grown more individualistic. The Caribbean is rapidly reflecting this shift from community to individual as well.