Parents can ask friends or relatives to take the role of godparents at a non-religious baby naming ceremony. But what do we call these supporting adults at a baby naming? “Godparent” implies a religious duty.
There are a surprising number of different terms that parents can choose from. Some use guide parents or guiding parents. Others prefer to call them mentors or sponsors. Confidant captures part of the role that these significant adults can play in the child’s life.
Some parents call them life guardians or supporting adults, although these are quite formal terms.
Guiding star might appeal to some people.
They might also be called Honorary or Special Aunt or Uncle.
Other terms are rather amusing – sparents, odd parents or the tongue-in-cheek god-less-parents. And then there is Fairly Ungodly-Mother.
How can they be involved in the ceremony?
The chosen adults may be asked to do a reading as part of the ceremony.
They can hold the child while the parents are making their promises.
They might also make their own promises. The supporting adults could commit to welcoming the child if s/he comes to them for company, advice or help. They might agree to listen to her/him and respect her/his confidences. They promise to show her/him understanding and love and let them know that they will always have a special place in their hearts.
The odd parents could write their own promises or read what the celebrant writes or what the parents would like them to say.
They can make their promises by answering questions asked by the celebrant. E.g. Do you promise to encourage E…. to fulfil her dreams?
Do you give the assurance that in times of difficulty E…., K….. (mother) and D…… (father) can turn to you for reassurance and help?
Number of supporting adults at baby naming ceremonies
The beauty of a bespoke naming ceremony is that there are no rules or even traditions that have to be adhered to. The parents may choose as many or as few Guide Parents as they wish.
They can be close friends of the parents or members of both families. They could also be siblings or step-siblings.
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