What is required of the godparents?
The Roman Catholic Church requires that godparents for baptism be fully initiated Roman Catholics (have received baptism, confirmation and communion), are active in their faith (regular attendance at Sunday Mass), and if married are married in the Catholic Church (Canon 874.1, 3, 4). The Roman Catholic Church only requires one godparent (Canon 873). A person baptized in another Christian tradition may act as a Christian witness to baptism as long as he or she is accompanied by an active Catholic (Canon 874.2). Also, a godparent is called to be a spiritual guide to their godchild. Godparents are encouraged to participate in the child’s preparation for First Communion and to be the sponsor for Confirmation.
