Thanks be to God, most of our parishes across the United States, regardless of jurisdiction, have experienced significant growth in the number of inquirers and catechumens. Our parish is no exception. Since the fall, we have had approximately 100 individuals studying our Orthodox Christian faith; we expect to receive about 50 of these into the Church by Pentecost. I speak for our entire community when I say that we are very grateful, humbled, and honored to welcome individuals and families into the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church.
On Sunday, after the Scripture readings, we will invite all those preparing to be received into the Church to come forward to the solea, in front of the Altar. We will then read two prayers: 1) the Naming of a Catechumen and 2) the Making of a Catechumen, asking the Lord to enroll the candidates among the catechumens and to grant illumination, protection, and growth in faith. Deacon Joseph will then offer a series of petitions for the catechumens, with the faithful responding “Lord, have mercy.” At the end of the petitions, our newly enrolled catechumens will venerate the Holy Gospel and return to their seats. The Liturgy will then continue as usual.
What makes this even more special is that all the parishes of our Holy Metropolis of San Francisco have been encouraged by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos to do the same. Our hope is that this practice will strengthen our parishes and deepen the sense that Great Lent is truly a season of preparation, not only for catechumens, but for all of us. Some prepare for illumination, while others renew their baptismal identities. Together, we walk toward Holy Pascha, when new life in Christ is revealed.
After Divine Services, I have asked those preparing to be received into the Church to share a bit about themselves in our fellowship hall. Although many have been worshiping with us since the fall, much of their time has been spent studying after services. This will be a wonderful opportunity for all of us to welcome them to our parish. It’s also a chance to consider how we can best support them in their walk with Christ—and, if called, as godparents.
The Divine Commandment read from the Holy Gospel during the Baptism service can summarize the role and responsibility of a godparent: "Teach them to observe all that I have commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." A godparent, regardless of the godchild's age, nurtures growth in understanding and in practicing the Orthodox Christian faith. A godparent should consistently aim to model Christ-like behavior. Therefore, a godparent is called to pray, fast, read from Holy Scripture and the lives of the saints, and participate in the Sacramental life of the Church. As the godparent deepens their faith maturity, they can offer more support to their entrusted godchild. Neglecting their own spiritual life ultimately leads to neglecting their godchild's spiritual well-being. Being chosen as a godparent is an honor; it’s a sacred title and responsibility that I encourage you to consider.
Below are some guidelines I’ve shared with our catechumens. Please follow this link for a helpful article titled “Godparenting 101", http://orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/godparenting101.aspx
1. The goal of a godparent is to instill the newly baptized or chrismated with the Orthodox Christian faith and holiness. A godparent nurtures a godchild in Christ.
2. The spiritual bond between a godparent and a godchild is unique. This relationship is considered closer and more intimate than that of biological parents with their children, as the spirit holds a higher status than the body.
3. Usually, there is only one sponsor, but two may be permitted.
4. A godparent must be an Orthodox Christian. Someone outside the Church can't raise a person within the Church.
5. A godparent's faith and involvement in the Church's sacramental life are essential. Someone who confesses Jesus Christ as Lord must not ignore or contradict this faith in word and actions.
6. The godparent should be mature enough to understand the responsibilities he or she is undertaking.
7. It is wise to consider selecting godparents beyond the family. This approach allows the family to expand and cultivates unique bonds in Christ.
8. A godparent should not be chosen out of obligation or because the individual or family believes they will be offended if a certain person or couple isn’t asked. Many, if not most, situations where people choose a godparent out of guilt or obligation end up being disastrous.
May this upcoming season strengthen our parishes and deepen the understanding that Great Lent is truly a time of preparation, not just for catechumens, but for all of us. Renew your baptismal idenity and, please, prayerfully consider serving as a godparent!
A blessed Great and Holy Lent.