As perspectives on spirituality shift across America, the traditional role of godparents is also undergoing transformation. Once viewed primarily as a religious duty, it has evolved into a more secular position centered on emotional support.
Growing up in a Catholic environment, I had a godparent, yet I never associated their role with religious significance. Now, as a member of the Unitarian Universalist community, my children do not have godparents. Instead, they participated in a Child Dedication Ceremony where parents and the congregation come together to promise their support for the child.
Occasionally, my kids have wondered about the absence of godparents. My partner and I explained that while certain religions appoint godparents as special figures in a child’s life, our faith does not practice this. We aim to foster meaningful relationships with a diverse group of people, driven not by religious beliefs but personal connections.
Historically, the position of godparent was not solely religious. Bernadette Sweetman, a postdoctoral researcher in adult religious education and faith development at Dublin City University, shared with The Atlantic that being a godparent “carried more social significance than spiritual… It was a mark of being a valued friend of the parents or a respected member of the community.” Sometimes, individuals were chosen as godparents to mend family disputes or enhance professional ties.
“I prefer the term ‘guide parent,’” remarked Sam Johnson, a humanist chaplain and author. “Many people are in search of someone they admire who can take on a special role in their child’s life … It essentially provides an additional role model for the child.”
This doesn’t diminish the potential impact godparents can have. My partner and I are, in fact, godparents to one of our nieces. However, the bond we share is rooted in our desire to be supportive guides, rather than religious obligations. To me, that’s what truly matters—and evidently, many others share this sentiment.
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In summary, the role of godparents has shifted from a strictly religious function to one that encompasses emotional and social support. While my children do not have godparents, we emphasize cultivating strong relationships with various individuals who can positively influence their lives.