Traditionally, godparents are responsible for supporting a newly-baptized child's life in the Christian church and setting an example by regular church attendance and worshipping with the child. As thanks for such commitment, godparents often receive gifts from the child's parents following the baptism ceremony. Traditional gifts blend Christianity with the godparents' commitment to the child. The special relationship a child shares with her godparent usually leads to gift-giving for future occasions, as well.
Books
Books with a spiritual theme are an appropriate gift for a godparent because they provide life lessons and historic information. Prayer and catechism books, summarizing the lessons of the New Testament, as well as the Bible, offer guidance, comfort and lessons about the church. Occasion-appropriate books, written specifically for godparents, offer guidance and information about the role they will have in their godchild's life.
Paired Items
Matching items for godparents and the godchild are a tangible reminder of their bond. You can offer matching items like jewelry or clothing, prayer beads or prayer cards, prayer plaques or decorative crosses. These items offer religious comfort and remind the child and the godparent of their shared connection, even when they are not together. If you have chosen two godparents who are not already a couple, include both people in the set of gifts.
Jewelry
Jewelry is a meaningful way to celebrate the occasion, especially since you can personalize the piece in celebration of your child's baptism. Jewelers can inlay cross charms to be worn on a necklace with the birthstone of your child. The cross is a symbol of the godparent's faith and their commitment to your child. If you choose something less personal, include a note card with your gift, expressing your gratitude for the godparent's commitment. A charm bracelet is a way to start your child's godparent a collection of religious charms that can grow over time and serve as a reminder of the special commitment to the church and your child.
Gifts for Future Holidays
The baptism is not the only time a child and her parent's share a gift with godparents. Traditional gift-giving holidays such as Christmas and birthdays are ideal times to honor the commitment of your godparents. Gift ideas appropriate for godparents include photo frames, scrapbooks and DVDs of the godchild. Though godparent gifts can be anything suited to the person's taste, the gift will ideally have a connection to the godchild.
