When the child is christened, you may have godfathers enough.

People are often ready to offer help, association, or credit once the difficult part of an undertaking is over. The saying contrasts plentiful ceremonial supporters with the earlier need for practical assistance.

It cautions against relying on offers that arrive only after success is secure. Genuine support is shown during the effort itself, not merely when there is a safe, visible occasion to join in. Its christening image is figurative, not a comment on christening practice.

Use it when many people volunteer congratulations, advice, or affiliation after a task has been completed, though few helped when help was actually needed. It can express dry disappointment at late-arriving supporters; the religious image is figurative.