What does a sponsor do?

Some who are coming into the Church might be in college or very busy with work; they may be caring for a loved one or a young family.  Such folks may appreciate simple gestures like occasional phone calls, or an offer to sit with them during Mass or coffee hour. Others may be lonely or suffering. Many are struggling with fear or facing rejection from friends and family members as they explore the Catholic Church. A sponsor helps matriculate a seeker into the sometimes bewildering bustle of parish life, and serves as a bridge between them and other parishioners.

Some of the ways a sponsor might offer support:

• Offer to attend Mass with them.
• Meet up for coffee or go for a walk together.
• Send a card or note with scripture, saint quote, or an encouraging thought — or just to remind them that you are praying for them.
• Listen compassionately as they process their experiences.
• Pray for them (and with them).
• Join them at OCIA sessions whenever possible.
• Schedule a regular phone call, to get to know each other and share your journeys with each other, offer encouragement, and share struggles or prayer requests.
• Make a list of any doctrinal or practical questions that come up during conversations, so you can seek solid answers together from OCIA catechists or clergy.
• Invite them to participate in parish ministries alongside you.
• Bring them along to Eucharistic adoration or a group rosary.
• Serve in the community together.
• Share a meal.

What are the requirements?

There are certain canonical requirements for a sponsor (CIC 872-874).

A sponsor must be:

• At least 16 years old.
• An actively practicing Catholic: baptized and confirmed, received 1st Communion and 1st Reconciliation; attends Mass faithfully on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation, and regularly participates in the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation.
• Married validly, if married.  A canonically irregular marriage may describe a variety of circumstances. A Catholic who has not been married validly in the Church by a Catholic priest or deacon, or who is currently in a civil marriage where either spouse has been civilly divorced but has not yet received a decree of nullity from the Church, or who is in a same-sex union, are just three examples. If you are unsure about the particulars of your situation or have any questions about this requirement, please contact the parish office and ask to speak confidentially with one of our Tribunal advocates or the pastor, who will be happy to help while respecting your privacy.).
• Living chastely in accordance with Church teaching (continence/celibacy) if single or in an irregular marriage.
• Not the parent of the person being sponsored.

Also required is attendance at specific Rites, most of which will be celebrated during Sunday Masses. Most of these take place just before and during Lent, including (for those being baptized) reception at the Easter Vigil. (Specific dates will be announced in advance.)