i don't think the concept of "godparents" is a religious invention. it would rather have evolved in the early times of humanity, when mortality was a very random & oft occurring event. the tribe would provide a certain protective net for its offspring, in case the natural parents should die too soon for the safety of their children. who needs religion for that? all it takes is the humane way.

What exactly would an Atheist be baptized for? What would be the purpose? I agree that there are some very good concepts being taught and being open minded I adopt the practices that I agree with and dismiss those I do not. I personally think it is ignorant to dismiss all things religious due only to the source of origin. I am not religious but I give %10 to people that need help so I tithe but not to a church. To refuse to do it only because I learned about tithing in church is as ridiculous as doing it for the same reason. Yoga and meditation are religious practices and I do both. Not doing something just because it is taught in a church is not being authentic to ourselves but baptism for atheists? That makes absolutely no sense to me. Then we would be creating atheist rituals and it would become a religion. Also baptism is directly connected to Christianity so again I ask why would an atheist get baptized? Why not just have a swimming party every year and then t would be tradition instead of ritualistic.

I LOVE Christmas... Whats the harm in celebrating Santa's Birthday?

I agree. And the feeling of being chosen to be someone a parent would trust with the welfare of their child, should something befall the parents, is a huge honor.

What term would you replace God parent with?
BTW, Totally agree with you on customs and some rituals. I view them as cultural rather than religious. I lot of them were usurped by Christianity.