Greek Orthodox - Koumbaro Must Baptize Firstborn?

[greekquestion]

Hi,

We are wondering if it is necessary for our Koumbaro to baptize our firstborn child, or if this is just a tradition. We were married in the Greek Orthodox Church.

Thanks!

 

[choirfiend]

The Koumbaro does not baptise the child, but is usually the sponsor/Godfather. It's a tradition, but nothing to do with theology, so you should be able to choose a different Godparent for your child if the situation dictates that.

 

[greekquestion]

Yes yes - that's what I mean, must the Koumbaro be the Godfather. We would like to pick someone else for the Godfather/mother but our Koumbaro is causing grief. Thanks for your reply.

 

[ArmyMatt]

I'd say you should talk to your priest about this if issues are springing up

and welcome to TAW!

 

[Damaris]

Yes yes - that's what I mean, must the Koumbaro be the Godfather. We would like to pick someone else for the Godfather/mother but our Koumbaro is causing grief. Thanks for your reply.

It is a popular custom in Greek churches for the wedding sponsor to also be the first child's godparent, but it is not a requirement at all. These are two different responsibilities in the Church, and nobody has an automatic right to be a godparent for anyone.

I would suggest talking to the priest about how to handle it, so hopefully you would not create a permanent rift in your spiritual family by not following what is truthfully a simple custom.