Do godparents need to be present for a Lutheran baptism?

Answer 1

As "greencreeper" said. I would point out that the liturgy of Holy Baptism in the Lutheran Church does include the participation of the congregation in taking an oath to help raise the child/adult in the Christian Faith. The Pastor will normally say, "Our Lord commands that we teach his precious truths to all who are baptized. Christian love therefore urges all of us, especially parents and sponsors, to assist in whatever manner possible so that [Name of Child or Adult] may remain a child of God until death. If you are willing to carry out this responsibility, then answer: Yes, as God gives me strength."

So officially the Godparents do not need to be present for the baptism. But in a round about way they should be present, since the parents, the family, the church and the godparents are all taking an oath to help raise the child in the faith.

Greencreeper-
The ELCA may contain 80% of the Lutherans in the United States, it does not speak for Confessional Lutheranism, nor Lutheranism in general in the United States.

Answer 2

There is no theological mandate for godparents to be present, at least in the ELCA which represents about 80 percent of Lutherans in the USA.

Answer 3

I don't believe they need to be physically present. But remember that the whole point of having godparents is that they are being entrusted by the Church to ensure a Godly upbringing for the child. Make sure you have chosen someone who you believe will fulfill that role well. Finally, you don't actually "have to" have godparents...it's a tradition, not a biblically dictated rule.

Answer 4

yes........I am a Lutheran Born but do not worship under a denomination now..

Answer 5

if they cant be present they shouldnt accept the honor