Baptism is not only a beautiful day, full of emotions and photos, but a moment with a special charge, which remains in the soul of all those who participate in the event. For the family, it is truly an unforgettable celebration, but also an important step in the baby's life, being a symbolic beginning of his spiritual journey.
Both parents and godparents become part of a special covenant, through which they promise to be close to the child, not only physically, but also spiritually, supporting him, in his growth, with values and love. The words spoken in church take on real weight and meaning, because baptism means more than a simple ritual, this is the beginning of a story of faith, support and bonds that last a lifetime.
Godparents are not just "spiritual parents" with an honorary title, but they assume an important and lasting role in the child's life, promising to watch over his spiritual and moral development. In turn, the parents, although they do not utter explicit vows during the service, already have a profound mission: to provide the child with a family environment in which faith, love and education can be harmoniously intertwined.
For many parents and godparents, understanding the true meaning of the promises made at baptism can be overwhelming, especially if they are unfamiliar with the liturgical details or symbolism of the ceremony.
Understanding the spiritual commitments made during the baptismal ceremony
In Orthodox baptism, the godparents, not the parents, speak on behalf of the child, since the child is still too young to express his or her faith on his or her own. The godparents thus become guarantors of the child's faith, assuming the responsibility of raising the child in faith in God before everyone. This is expressed through a series of questions and answers addressed to them, and the godparents confess the Orthodox faith and renunciation of evil on behalf of the child.
Examples of commitments:
it Renunciation of Satan, all his works, and all his servants;
it Union with Christ;
it The Creed — a synthesis of the Orthodox Christian faith.
These promises are not symbolic, they imply that the godparents must be an example to follow and actively participate in the child's religious education, to help him or her draw closer to God. It is a lifelong spiritual commitment, not just a festive role for one day, as many would believe.
The role of godparents after baptism
After the baptism ceremony, the godparents' mission is just beginning. Many mistakenly believe that their obligation ends with the purchase of the candle, the trunk and the gift for the child. In reality, the godparents become a second spiritual support, both for the child and for his or her family.
The long-term responsibilities of godparents are:
it Supporting the child during important moments of religious life – first communion, confession, religious wedding;
it Active participation in the moral and religious education of the godson;
it Maintaining a constant and sincere connection with the little one, to provide guidance and support, especially in difficult or doubting moments.
Parents' promises to love, protect, and guide the new family member
Although parents do not make verbal statements during the service, their role is fundamental. They are the ones who choose to bring their child to baptism, introduce them to the life of the church, and give them a spiritual identity. This gesture is in itself a promise not to neglect the child's life and education.
What promises do parents make by choosing baptism:
it To provide the child with an education in the spirit of the Christian faith;
it To be an example in terms of honesty, love and compassion;
it To collaborate with the godparents for the good of the child from all points of view.
Choosing the right godparents
An often overlooked aspect is the importance of choosing the right godparents. It is not enough for them to be close friends or relatives, it is more important that they truly understand and accept the spiritual role they will have in the child's life.
What parents should consider when choosing godparents:
it Are they faithful people, who live in the spirit of Christian values?
it Are they willing to be actively involved in the child's life?
it Can I become a real and constant support for the child?
The Church recommends that godparents be practicing Orthodox Christians, as they will recite the Creed on behalf of the child and will effectively become his or her spiritual guides. Choosing the right godparents is a priceless gift, with long-term effects, for the child.
How can parents and godparents be with the baby for his spiritual well-being?
The relationship between parents and godparents does not end with the baptism party. On the contrary, it should be the beginning of a collaboration based on respect, trust and love for the child. It is essential that the two parties communicate openly, support each other and have a common vision regarding the education and values transmitted.
Practical recommendations:
it Celebrate important religious moments together (name day, religious holidays, anniversaries);
it Go to church together—even once every few months;
it Involve godparents in important decisions regarding the child's religious education;
it Encourage constant meetings between the godparents and the little one to build an authentic and lasting relationship.
Symbols and meanings of baptism
In addition to the promises spoken or assumed, every gesture and every object in the baptismal service has a deep meaning.
Some relevant examples:
it Anointing with Holy Chrism – signifies that the little one who was baptized received the gift of the Holy Spirit;
it Baptism candle – symbolizes the light of faith, which the godparents light in the child's life;
it New baptismal clothes – represent the cleansing of the soul and the new life received through the Sacrament of Holy Baptism.
Baptism is not just a festive and joyful event, but the beginning of a profound story. Godparents and parents each have an extremely important role in this journey, and the promises made, whether spoken in church or assumed in silence, require involvement, faith and authentic love.
For these commitments to not remain just beautiful words, responsibility, collaboration and an open heart are needed. Baptism is not the end of a ceremony, but the beginning of a soul mission, and when parents and godparents truly fulfill their role, the child receives not only a blessing, but a strong anchor for his entire life.
