In children’s story tales, a fairy godmother makes an appearance just when she’s needed most. With the wave of a wand, she can make everything right. Godparents – also called mentors, special adults or supporting adults in non-religious ceremonies – might not have a magic wand, but their role in your child’s life can have a magical effect.

But choosing godparents – or supporting adults – is not always an easy job. They are meant to be people who provide religious (if required), moral and practical guidance to your child as they grow. They are the type of people who you would, in theory, be happy to have looking after your children if you died (even though being a godparent wouldn’t make them legal guardian of the child).

In an ideal world, a godparent or supporting adult will develop a close relationship with your child so that as they grow, they have an adult who they can turn to when they don’t want to approach mum or dad – or perhaps just want another point of view. They should be able to combine the right mixture of fun and games, with discipline and learning.

Church of England

The CoE suggests you have at least three Godparents – two the same sex as your child and one of the opposite sex. They can be family or friends but they should all be 16 or older and be baptised. Some priests require that they’re also confirmed and practicing Christians. Others are more relaxed. Either way, the Godparents will be asked to make solemn religious promises and they should be comfortable doing this.

Catholic Church

In Catholic baptisms, one Godparent is sufficient but two are allowed. If you have two, you should have one man and one woman and neither is allowed to be the parents of the child. They will need to be 16 or older, be baptised and ideally confirmed, although speak to your priest as some are more relaxed on this point. Non-catholics cannot be Godparents but they can be Christian Witnesses.

Naming Ceremony

As this is a secular ceremony, you can choose who you like and how many people you like to act as supporting adults. Like the Thanksgiving Service, they are not called Godparents, rather special adults, supporting adults, sponsors, mentors or guides. The statements they make during the ceremony are customisable but usually centre on providing guidance and support to the child and its family.