My wife and I are expecting our first child in the fall and have started entertaining the idea of asking some close friends to be Godparents. I have benefitted greatly from having Godparents in my life and would like to give that to my son/daughter as well. The Godparents my parents chose for brother were not as great, moved away and out of my brother's life.

I am anxious to hear from Dads out there on their experiences with this and whether they would advise we pursue this, or pass on it. Thanks.

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What you stated about your brother is a good example of why I don't think it is a good idea. Years ago most folks grew up lived and died within a 10 mile radius not so much anymore. Things change  people move around more. I recommend that you you and the Mrs sit down draw up a will and state who gets your kids if something tragic happens and find an uncle/aunt or other family member/close friend to mentor him/her sort of best friend big brother/sister figure. JM2C  

That's what we did. What little is left of our family is scattered, and many are non-religious, so the term rings hollow.
My godparents were not even in this country, and aside from some checks their effect on my spiritual upbringing was zero.

Thanks guys, some good advice indeed. I suppose if you surround your kids with good people with  good values, the opportunity is there for others to be be a good influence. I know that was key for me growing up. A strong family and multiple family friends/coaches/teachers/pastors helped guide me along. Trying to formalize it might only be a set-up for disappointment.

I'm a mom and not a dad, but I hope you won't mind me butting in.

My husband and I are religious, so we are very happy to have two people committed to praying for our son. I'm not sure godparents make a lot of sense in any other context.

How did your godparents benefit you? Do you have people you can choose who will stay in your kids' lives, even at a distance?

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