In some churches in Chernihiv, it has become possible to conduct baptisms with godparents participating remotely. Now, if a godparent cannot be physically present, they can take part in the sacrament via video call.
The rector of the Cathedral of St. Great Martyr Catherine, Father Roman Kinik, shared in an interview with Cheline TV that this practice has become particularly relevant since the onset of the full-scale invasion.
"There are moments when parents want to have a godparent present, but the godparent is currently at the front, fighting for Ukraine. There were instances when we simply turned on the phone, allowing the godparent to connect, while the godparent's wife held the phone here, so he was also present at the baptism," Father Roman shares.
Through video communication, the godparent participates in the ceremony, answers the priest's questions, and recites the necessary prayers:
"The Church has decreed that prayers of prohibition be read, forbidding the devil to approach this infant, and there are words that godparents say when the child cannot express them on their own. Therefore, the godparent on the phone also heard the questions posed to him and could say those words as well."
Can such a baptism be considered complete?
Father Roman asserts that this fully complies with religious canons, as the godparent spiritually connects through video communication, participates in prayers, and this makes them a legitimate godparent. When they are able to return, they will surely embrace their godchild and share their love.