Recommendation of the Liturgical Commission regarding participation of non-Christians in Baptism

October 2010

Baptism is the Rite of Christian Initiation therefore all Godparents and Sponsors (the terms are interchangeable and synonymous) should be, as the Book of Common Prayer states (page 298), and for the reasons outlined, baptized Christians.


When parents or candidates desire to have family members or friends who are un-churched, or of another faith, participate in their child’s or their own baptism, they may do so utilizing the designation “Witness.”


A Witness would stand with the Baptismal party during the Presentation and Examination of Candidates, at the Baptism and the welcoming of the newly baptized.


A Witness has no specific speaking role in the liturgy but is invited to participate in the congregational responses and might well be recognized at any following social celebration.


If it is the custom to give certificates to godparents/sponsors, officiating clergy may also wish to give a locally produced certificate to each “Witness” stating his or her presence and function (witnessing) at the baptism.