Sirius as godfather (Re: Funerals)

[Jen Reese]

No: HPFGUIDX 137793

Marianne:
> I wonder, though, about the level of committment that is required of 
> a godparent.  In JKR's recent TLC/Mugglenet interview she seemed to 
> shy away from fully discussing Harry's baptism. I got the feeling 
> that Sirius as godfather was required to take some sort of vow that 
> went beyond the traditional "I promise to take care of the kid if 
> something happens to the parents." 
> 
> Again, it's speculation on my part. But, as at this time, according 
> to the recent interview, the Potters were already in hiding because 
> of the danger to Harry, perhaps there was an additional level of 
> protection for the child agreed to by the godfather because Harry 
> faced greater peril than most children.

Jen: One of my favorite speculations! I'm glad JKR offered hope for a 
twist in the godparent ceremony during her recent interviews. I wrote 
a possible scenario in: 
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HPforGrownups/message/105067

Re-reading my old thoughts, suggesting a Sirius sacrifice would 
somehow strengthen Lily's sacrifice--I'm not sure about that part now. 
After the recent interviews, JKR makes it very clear how unique Lily's 
sacrifice was, unheard of before then and conferring a special 
protection never seen in the WW (except DD knows of it, so what to 
make of that? Must be he knows the possibilty of it within the context 
of ancient magic, but hasn't seen it before Lily).

But I still think there would be some benefit to Harry if Sirius were 
to die in the act of protecting him. A clause in the guardianship 
thingy, something Sirius would readily agree to. That quality in him, 
being willing to die if needed, was probably part of the reason he was 
chosen, along with being an Order member and unflinchingly loyal to 
James.

Jen