Whoever is chosen as Ninong (Godfather) or Ninang (Godmother) for a Baptism or a Confirmation, is called to serve an important purpose and undertake a truly valuable task in a child’s life.
In this modern world, we often lose sight of the true value of this role, which should not be the case. When the parents of a newborn child choose a Ninong or Ninang for his or her Baptism, they should bear in mind that, beyond the friendship that binds them with each other, it is essential that he or she is someone who can support their child over their entire lifetime.
According to church leaders, a Ninong or a Ninang should be able to walk alongside the child and offer him or her spiritual support. The Ninong or Ninang should also be a model of the Christian life that could inspire the child as he or she grows up.
The role of the Ninong or Ninang is not just limited to just accompanying the child to the altar or offering him or her favors.
When choosing the Ninong and Ninang for a Baptism and Confirmation, timing is crucial. He or she has a vital role to support the family in preparing everything and organizing the ceremony to make the day as special and unforgettable as it deserves to be.
They are those who can accompany their godchild to the altar and take responsibility for accompanying them as they grow up and face the challenges of life.
Meanwhile, on the occasion of the Confirmation, usually a Ninong or a Ninang accompanies the Confirmed and supports the young faithful in their ‘confirmation’ as a member of the Church.
Requirements of the Ninong and of the Ninang
If you are wondering what the requirements are in terms of the role of Ninong or Ninang as indicated by canon 874 with regard to Baptism, and by canon 93 of the Code of Canon Law, for Confirmation.
- They are designated by the same baptism or by the parents or by those who take their place or, failing that, by the parish priest or the minister, and have the attitude and intention of exercising this office;
- The Godfather or the Mother for the Confirmation must have completed by the age of sixteen unless another age has been established by the diocesan Bishop, or the parish priest or the minister does not seem opportune, for a just cause, to admit the exception;
- They must be a Catholic, have already received confirmation, the holiest sacrament of the Eucharist, and lead a life in conformity with the faith and the assignments they assume;
- They are not enshrined by any canonical penalty lawfully imposed or declared;
- They are not the father or mother of the baptized.
In most traditions, there can be either a single Ninong or a single Ninang or a Ninong and Ninang together when invited for a Baptism. Two Godfathers or two Godmothers are not allowed. In addition, it is required to personally seek authorization from the Parish Priest to be able to act as Ninong or Ninang.
Duties and Tasks of Ninong and Ninang
Ninongs and Ninangs have crucial roles in the life of their godchild. They are in fact referred to as their “second parents” and are expected to guide, mentor, and teach the child how to live a meaningful life just like how the parents are to their child.
They are also considered to be the most trusted people of the parents, to whom they would entrust their child in the event of need or necessity. The Ninong or Ninang must be prepared to take care of the child if the parents die and must be able to support and encourage them to go on with life.
The parents and Ninong or Ninang should work together and form a spiritual family, which is linked by faith and love, for the physical and material well-being of the child. Aside from the spiritual duties, one must also keep in mind that the moral duties of a Ninong and Ninang must also be considered and these should go hand in hand with those of their religious duties.
In this regard, they are expected to have the integrity to recognize whether or not they are worthy of such a responsibility, based on their own life choices.
Choosing a Ninong and Ninang
When choosing a Ninong or Ninang, it is necessary to consider the person’s living and proven faith that makes them suitable to teach the child about their pride in being Christians. They have a big role to become a model for life and set an example to become a responsible adult and a devout Christian.
Gifts You Should Give If You are the Ninong or Ninang
Being godparents is not about spending money and giving the most expensive gift to their godchild. Instead, the Ninong and Ninang have a duty to give a precious gift to their godchild, something that lasts over time and also serves as a symbol of the bond being created with them.
Tips for Godparents
- Stay close and build a meaningful relationship with your godchildren. You will support them on a fundamental step in their life.
- Celebrate your faith regularly and live your life according to the Church. Your role should not stop after Baptism or Confirmation. It can be practiced and celebrated every day. You can show them or make them feel your role in their life by as simple as taking them to Mass and by making them feel part of the great family of the Faith.
- You should always remember that what you are taking on is a commitment that lasts forever, a job made from love, of being a constant presence in the life of your godchild, to care and support them through good and bad times.
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