Godparenting

NURTURING THE NEXT GENERATION

by Tracey Herzer and Nancy McLaughlin

This beautiful and practical little book is perfect for parents, godparents, grandparents or anyone who wants to talk about God with a child they love. It explores the history and theology of godparenting, and offers plenty of easy, helpful tips on how to be the best godparent ever!  A lovely keepsake gift and a handy guide to use for years to come.

Being a godparent is a great honor—and a sacred responsibility. After all, Baptism is central to Christian life, and godparents play a vital role in celebrating this sacrament. When you accept the invitation to sponsor a little one, what exactly are you promising to do?  This book helps you explore the baptismal covenant and gives ideas on how to have simple conversations with your child about God in the course of everyday events like preparing meals, reading stories and taking a bath. 

 "We all want to help the next generation become stronger and more faithful. But often we aren't sure quite how to go about it. This book is a place to start. The church has always known it takes a village to grow a child. The church's answer has been to try to increase the godparenting available to all people as they grow. Read this book and you'll see why this simple role is at the heart of growing in faith."  — Loren B. Mead, author of The Once and Future Church and founder of the Alban Institute

"This would be a wonderful gift for anyone who's about to become a godparent. It's a how-to book, organized around the baptismal service in the Book of Common Prayer." — The Living Church

The book is a useful resource not only for godparents, but also for unofficial godparents, such as grandparents, teachers, mentors, coaches, and friends." —Episcopal Teacher, Summer 2008

About the Authors

Tracey Herzer has more than 15 years' experience as an educator in the Episcopal Church. She is past President of NAECED - the National Association of Episcopal Christian Education Directors and Executive Director of Leader Resources. She is the author of WorkshopCycles, a Sunday school program and extensive contributor to the popular youth ministry program, The Journey to Adulthood.

Nancy McLaughlin holds a Masters of Arts in Theology, a Master of Divinity and a Doctorate of Ministry in Congregational Development. She is author of Do You Believe? Living the Baptismal Covenant and a former staff member at LeaderResources.