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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Godparents should be spiritual mentors, not gift-givers — Cardinal Tagle

Godparents should be spiritual mentors, not gift-givers — Cardinal Tagle

Published Apr 2, 2024 03:16 am

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle advised parents to prioritize faith over financial status when selecting godparents for their children.

Cardinal Tagle.jpeg
(Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle / Photo from CBCP)

"Remember that the role of [a] ninong and ninang (godfather and godmother) is not to give gifts. They are supposed to be models of Christian life," Tagle said in a statement issued by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Monday, April 1.

The former Manila Archbishop pointed out that financial status should not be a determining factor and should be considered "unimportant."

"Unfortunately, some choose godparents who are corrupt and greedy," he said.

Tagle also highlighted the importance of baptism as a "spiritual rebirth."

"The desired outcome of baptism is being dead to sin and alive for God," he said.

"Please, please respect the death of Christ. Jesus died on the cross, and God raised Him from the dead to bring us new life," he added.

The Cardinal also called the Catholic faithful to share the "gift of baptism" with others.

He suggested that the gift of baptism should be passed down to grandchildren, children, and friends.

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Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle CBCP
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