Process of Preparation for Sponsors

Role of the Sponsor

1. The sponsor should take an active role in the preparation of the confirmand. The sponsor helps and guides the confirmand in the Christian way of life and should take some responsibility for the continued spiritual developments of the confirmand.

2. The sponsor is properly the same as for Baptism. Other qualified sponsors may be chosen. If another is chosen, it is suggested that the young people choose a sponsor within the community who could participate to some degree in the preparation (similar to that of RCIA). A candidate may have two sponsors, if there is some reason or personal desire.

As stated in the Diocesan Policy on the Sacrament of Confirmation, the sponsor must

a. Be suitable for this role and have the intention of fulfilling it;

b. Be not less than sixteen years of age;

c. Be a confirmed Catholic who regularly receives the Most Holy Eucharist and lives a life of faith which befits the role to be undertaken;

d. Be under no canonical penalty, whether imposed or declared; and

e. Be neither the father nor the mother of the Confirmand

3. The sponsor should have an ongoing, caring relationship with the candidate, not only during the Confirmation preparation process, but also after the reception of the sacrament.

4. The sponsor should communicate to the candidate the importance of daily prayer, regular reception of the sacraments, Christian service and all else that pertains to the preparation process, as well as to a continued life striving toward holiness.

5. The sponsor should have good knowledge of the candidate‟s readiness for reception of the Sacrament so as to testify in the candidate‟s behalf.

6. If, during the period of preparation, the sponsor is not available to the candidate, many parishes successfully organize "prayer partners" for those preparing for Confirmation.