Before the word meant a kind relative with a gift, it meant someone willing to answer.
Sponsorship began with adults. A pagan who wanted baptism needed a Christian who would vouch for him and walk with him. Infant baptism inherited the office and changed the question. The child cannot speak. Someone must speak. At the font the priest still asks the ancient questions, and the godparents say the Creed over a person who cannot yet say it.
The Church borrowed a word from Roman law: surety. A godparent does not owe money if the child lapses. He owes attention. That is why the law is particular — sixteen, confirmed, living the faith, not the parent — and why a beloved agnostic friend can be at the lunch and still cannot take the chair. The register should tell the truth.
This little book is for anyone who has been asked, or is about to ask. Read it before you say yes. The child will not remember the day. Heaven will. So will you.
A Silent Homilies booklet. Written to be read in one or two sittings.