There’s a charming French tradition that turns the moment you ask someone to be a godparent into a keepsake: a card listing ten playful or heartfelt commandments from the child to their future godmother or godfather. Here’s how to understand, choose, and personalize your own set of godparent commandments.

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Common price range: €5–€15 per card ·
Typical number of commandments: 10 ·
Most popular material: Cardstock with embellishments ·
Estimated annual baptisms in France (Catholic): ~300,000

Quick snapshot

1Traditional Card
2Humorous Card
  • Lighthearted tone with funny promises (Etsy – themed godparent cards)
  • Popular for close family or friends (Etsy – themed godparent cards)
  • Often includes illustrations of the child (Etsy – themed godparent cards)
3Printable Template
4Personalized Gift

Five key attributes, one pattern: the tradition is deeply rooted in French Catholic baptism but has evolved into a customizable keepsake.

Attribute Details
Origin French baptism tradition dating back several decades
Common format 10×15 cm card (postcard size)
Typical content 10 commandments written as if from the child to the godparent
Average cost €8–€20 for a card, €15–€30 for a personalized version
Popular occasions Baptism, godparent request, godparent anniversary

What Are the 10 Commandments for Godparents?

Origin and cultural significance in French baptism

  • The 10 commandments are a written set of promises or wishes from the child to the godparent (TouchNote – greeting card publisher).
  • The role of godparents itself traces back to the 2nd century AD, according to historical sources (TouchNote – history of godparent tradition).
  • In France, the custom is closely tied to Catholic baptism, with approximately 300,000 Catholic baptisms annually (French episcopal conference).
The upshot

French families who want a memorable way to ask a godparent are turning a doctrinal teaching tool into a personal rite of passage. The 10 commandments card makes the request itself the gift.

Typical wording and structure of the commandments

  • Commandments range from humorous (“I will let you eat all my sweets”) to sentimental (“You will always be my guide in faith”) (Etsy – example listing of 10 commandments cards).
  • They are often printed on a 10×15 cm card – the size of a standard postcard.
  • Many versions mirror the religious structure of the biblical Ten Commandments but replace strict rules with loving promises.

Differences between versions for godfather vs. godmother

  • Etsy sellers market separate 10-commandments cards for a godmother and a godfather, often with gendered illustrations (Etsy – 2 large cards set).
  • Wording differences are subtle – for example, “You will be my favorite godfather” vs. “You will be my favorite godmother.”
  • Matching sets for both godparents are available so the pair receives coordinated cards.

Bottom line: The 10 commandments card is not a legal document but a creative expression of the godparent–child bond. For Catholic families, it reinforces the faith-based duties; for secular ones, it’s a personalized announcement.

How to Ask Someone to Be a Godparent with a 10 Commandments Card

Step-by-step: choosing the right card design

  1. Determine tone: Humorous cards work best for close friends or siblings; sentimental ones suit traditional or religious contexts.
  2. Select format: Physical cards can be purchased on Etsy or Zazzle; printable templates are free on blogs and Pinterest.
  3. Match design to recipient: A godfather might appreciate a sporty or nautical theme, while a godmother might like floral or vintage illustrations.

Writing the request message to accompany the commandments

  • Most cards have a blank space on the back for a personal note – include the child’s name, due date (if unborn), and a short sentence like “We would be honored if you would be our child’s godparent” (Zazzle – customization options).
  • Some parents add a Bible verse if the baptism is religious; Anglican Compass (Christian guidance resource) suggests verses such as Proverbs 22:6.
  • Keep the text under 100 words so it fits on the card and feels sincere, not overwhelming.

Presenting the card to the prospective godparent

  • Many parents give the card during a special meal or a small ceremony (TouchNote – godparent card as gift).
  • If the godparent lives far away, the card can be mailed with a small gift like a photo frame or a candle.
  • Personalization with the child’s name and the expected baptism date is common and adds sentimental value.

“We gave the card to my brother over dinner, and he laughed at the first commandment – ‘I will let you eat all my sweets.’ That moment made the whole preparation worth it.”

— French parent testimonial on Etsy

What to watch

The request card can double as a thank-you gift if the godparent says yes – but be prepared with a backup plan if they decline. Some families give a smaller card first and a full 10-commandments card after acceptance.

Bottom line: The pattern: the card is often given during a special meal or ceremony, making the request itself a memorable event.

Where to Find Printable or Humorous 10 Commandments for Godparents

Top online stores for ready-made cards

  • Etsy: Hundreds of customizable listings from independent sellers, priced €8–€20. Examples include 2-card sets for godfather and godmother (Etsy – example listing).
  • Popcarte: French brand offering personalized cards with text fields and photo uploads. Prices start at €12.
  • Amazon: Mass-produced cards often bundled in packs – simple but less unique.
  • Zazzle: Templates you can edit online and have printed (Zazzle – customizable godparent cards).

Free printable templates and DIY options

  • Blog posts on parenting and craft sites offer free PDF templates – search “printable 10 commandments for godfather” or “10 commandments godmother template free.”
  • Pinterest boards curate dozens of free designs, from rustic to modern minimalist.
  • DIY: Design your own in Canva or Microsoft Word using a 10×15 cm layout, then print on cardstock at home or a local print shop.

Humorous vs. sentimental variations

  • Humorous commandments often include playful promises like “I will let you eat all my sweets” or “Thou shalt spoil me on birthdays” (Etsy – humorous theme options).
  • Sentimental versions focus on spiritual guidance: “You will pray for me every day” and “You will teach me about God’s love.”
  • Some Etsy sellers offer a mix – four humorous and six sentimental – to suit both personalities.
Bottom line: The best source depends on your budget and desired uniqueness. Etsy offers the widest creative variety, Zazzle the fastest turnaround, and free printables the lowest cost. Catholic families should lean toward religious wording; secular families can pick any theme.

What Are the Best Gift Ideas for Godparents?

Popular 10 commandments cards and sets

  • Single card for one godparent: €8–€15 (Walmart – retail price benchmark).
  • Matching set for godfather and godmother: €15–€25 (Etsy – 2-card set).
  • Some sets include small envelopes and a ribbon tie for a presentational touch.

Combining the card with a small gift

  • Photo frame with a print of the child’s ultrasound or first photo – total €20–€35.
  • Personalized candle engraved with “Godfather” or “Godmother” – €10–€20.
  • Jewelry (cross necklace for godmother, cufflinks for godfather) – €30+.

Personalized gifts: engraving, custom illustrations

  • Etsy sellers offer laser-engraved wooden plaques with the 10 commandments text – €30–€50.
  • Custom illustrations of the child with the future godparent – €25–€60.
  • Popcarte allows full photo personalization of the card itself, including a custom message on the back.

Bottom line: The card is the primary gift, but adding a photo frame or engraved item elevates it. Godparents in France typically receive the card during a baptism meal – the whole experience costs between €8 and €50.

How to Personalize the 10 Commandments for Godmother or Godfather

Choosing the tone: lighthearted, sincere, or religious

  • Lighthearted: Use inside jokes, funny promises, and playful language. Best for close siblings or best friends.
  • Sincere: Focus on the bond, memories, and hopes for the child. Works for grandparents or older godparents.
  • Religious: Include Bible verses (e.g., Psalm 127:3) and a promise to pray. Recommended by Anglican Compass (Christian guidance resource).

Customizing each commandment for the relationship

  • Replace generic lines with specific ones: “You will teach me how to fish” instead of “You will teach me new skills.”
  • Include the godparent’s name – “Aunt Marie” or “Uncle David” – in at least one commandment.
  • Mention a shared activity: “We will bake cookies together every Christmas.”

Including inside jokes or family references

  • “Thou shalt not tell Mom about the spilled juice” – a humorous nod to trusted secrets.
  • “You will always be my favorite tata” for a French godmother.
  • Most vendors offer a text field for custom phrases – use it to replace two or three of the standard commandments (Zazzle – text customization).

“The parents who personalize the card get the most emotional reaction. They replace one commandment with a private joke – that’s the one that makes the godparent cry.”

— Card seller on Popcarte (French card retailer)

The trade-off

Personalization adds sentimental value but requires advance planning; custom text typically takes 2–3 days to produce. If you’re in a rush, choose a template with preset wording and add only the child’s name.

The catch: more personalization increases cost and turnaround time, but also increases emotional impact.

Steps to Create Your Own 10 Commandments Godparent Card

  1. Decide on tone and style: Choose between humorous, sentimental, or religious – this determines wording and imagery.
  2. Pick a source: Buy from Etsy, Zazzle, or download a free printable template.
  3. Customize the text: Write or adapt the 10 commandments. Keep total word count under 150 for a 10×15 cm card.
  4. Add a personal message: On the back, write a short note requesting the godparent role or thanking them.
  5. Choose presentation: Insert into an envelope or pair with a small gift.
  6. Present with meaning: Give the card during a meal, after the baptism ceremony, or mail it with a handwritten letter.

“In our parish preparation class, we encourage families to use the 10 commandments card as a tangible way to explain the godparent’s role. It’s a teaching tool as much as a request.”

— Baptism coordinator, French parish (name withheld)

Bottom line: The whole process takes about 30 minutes if you use a template, or 2–3 days if you order a fully customized card. Catholic parents should coordinate with the priest to ensure the wording aligns with church expectations.

Confirmed Facts vs. What’s Unclear

Confirmed facts

  • The 10 commandments are a recognized tradition in French Catholicism for godparent selection (Etsy – widespread sale of such cards).
  • Cards are widely sold on Etsy, Amazon, and specialized boutiques (Walmart – retail product category, Zazzle – customizable card templates).
  • Commandments range from humorous to sentimental (Etsy – humorous theme options).
  • Godparents are traditionally chosen at baptism as sponsors for a child entering Christianity (TouchNote – godparent role).
  • In Anglican practice, godparents are expected to help raise the child in the Christian faith (Anglican Compass – godparent duties).

What’s unclear

  • The exact historical origin of the custom is not well documented – it likely developed informally in the late 20th century.
  • Whether the tradition is used in non-religious or civil baptisms is unclear; most evidence points to Catholic contexts.
  • The most popular wording is not standardized – it varies by seller and region.
  • Whether godparents are expected to take guardianship is a separate legal question not addressed by the card tradition (TouchNote – guardianship mention).
  • The long-term emotional impact of the card tradition has not been studied.

“Secular parents sometimes choose godparents purely as trusted adults in the child’s life. The 10 commandments card adapts to that – it can be entirely non-religious.”

— TouchNote – modern godparent trends

The pattern: the tradition is vibrant but loosely defined. For Catholic families, the card reinforces the church’s teaching; for secular families, it’s a creative announcement. Both sides benefit from the same product.

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Additional sources

etsy.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it appropriate to give the 10 commandments to both a godfather and a godmother?

Yes – many sellers offer matching sets for the godfather and godmother. The wording is slightly different to reflect the gender.

Can I use the 10 commandments for a civil or non-religious baptism?

Absolutely. You can choose a secular version that omits religious references and focuses on the personal bond.

What is the typical age of the child when these cards are given?

Most often at infant baptism (0–1 year), but also for older children and even adults being baptized. The card works for any age.

How long should the card text be?

Keep the 10 commandments combined to around 100–150 words. Each commandment should be 1–2 short sentences.

Do I need to include all 10 commandments or can I write fewer?

You can write fewer – many people create a personalized list of 5–8 promises that feel authentic. But staying close to 10 keeps the “commandment” theme.

What is the difference between the 10 commandments for godfather vs. godmother?

Mainly the gendered pronouns (“he” / “she”) and sometimes illustrations (ties vs. flowers). The core promises are interchangeable.

Are there religious versions that include Bible verses?

Yes – Etsy sellers offer versions that incorporate verses like Proverbs 22:6 or Psalm 127:3. Anglican Compass recommends Bible passages for godparents.

How far in advance should I prepare the card before the baptism?

At least 1–2 weeks before the baptism, especially if ordering a personalized card. Printable templates can be done in an evening.

Summary – The 10 commandments for godparents are more than a card: they are a modern ritual that bridges faith, humor, and personal connection. For a Catholic parent in France, the choice is clear: either embrace the traditional religious wording or customize a lighter version that the godparent will cherish for years. For those outside France, the same concept works as a thoughtful, culturally rich request.